Lane Reductions on I-35W and I-494 Closures Impact Monday Morning Commute

Morning Traffic Overview

Minneapolis commuters are facing a challenging start to the work week this Monday, February 2, 2026. While regional authorities have not declared a formal snow emergency, subzero temperatures and freezing conditions have resulted in slick patches on major arteries. Drivers are encouraged to allow for extra following distance as black ice remains a persistent threat during the early morning hours. Traffic flow is currently heavy on major inbound routes, with specific construction projects creating significant bottlenecks in the south and east metro corridors.

Major Roadwork and Highway Impacts

Several long-term construction projects continue to disrupt travel across the city. Motorists should be aware of the following major closures and lane restrictions currently in effect:

• I-35W Northbound: Traffic is currently reduced to a single lane at the Exit 18 ramp to 4th Street SE. This restriction is causing localized backups that are expected to intensify during the peak afternoon commute.
• I-494 Corridor: The major reconstruction project between Eagan and Richfield continues to impact the southern loop. The westbound entrance ramp to I-494 from Portland Avenue and 12th Avenue is closed for ongoing work through mid-February. Additionally, the westbound exit ramp to Nicollet Avenue remains closed.
• I-394 and I-94 Project: MnDOT has initiated a significant project affecting the interchange between downtown Minneapolis and Highway 100. Westbound I-394 is being reduced to two lanes, with traffic shifted into the E-ZPass lanes. During this phase, there will be no E-ZPass or carpool options available. The Penn Avenue bridge over I-394 is also closed, with detours routed via Theodore Wirth Parkway.
• Louisiana Avenue: The eastbound entrance ramp to I-394 at Louisiana Avenue remains closed. Commuters are advised to utilize Highway 55 as an alternative route into the city center.

Public Transit and Service Alerts

Metro Transit riders should prepare for several service adjustments and facility limitations this morning. Public safety and maintenance projects are currently affecting accessibility at key rail stations:

• METRO Blue Line: Ongoing mechanical issues have rendered the escalators and the south tower elevator at the Lake Street/Midtown Station unavailable. Riders needing accessible boarding should utilize the north tower elevator. Similarly, both elevators at the Franklin Avenue Station are out of service; passengers are directed to use the ramp on the north side of the station.
• METRO Gold Line: A temporary detour is in effect on 5th Street between Smith Avenue and St. Peter Street. This adjustment will impact eastbound connections until late tonight.
• Fare Changes: A reminder for those utilizing suburban transit that the Maple Grove Transit "My Ride" fare increase remains in effect following the January adjustment.

Commuter Recommendations

Given the subzero weather and multiple lane reductions, the use of transit apps for real-time tracking is highly recommended. For those driving, MnDOT suggests avoiding the central business district if possible or utilizing parking on the city periphery to avoid congestion caused by ongoing ramp closures. Please stay tuned for further updates as the construction season progresses.