Official City Roundup: Major Transit Disruptions and Housing Policy Updates

Public Notice: Major I-494 Weekend Closure and Bridge Demolition

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has issued a critical traffic advisory for the upcoming weekend. Beginning at 10:00 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, Interstate 494 will be closed in both directions between I-35W and Highway 77. This full closure is necessary to facilitate the safe demolition of the 12th Avenue bridge as part of a multi-year corridor improvement project. The interstate is scheduled to reopen by 5:00 a.m. on Monday, March 9, 2026.

• Eastbound Detour: Northbound I-35W to eastbound Highway 62, then southbound Highway 77 back to I-494.
• Westbound Detour: Northbound Highway 77 to westbound Highway 62, then southbound I-35W back to I-494.
• Local Impact: The 12th Avenue bridge over I-494 is closed to all traffic through September 2026. Pedestrians should utilize the Chicago Avenue overpass.

City Council Action: Emergency Rental Notification Extension

Following a regular meeting on Thursday, March 5, the Minneapolis City Council has officially implemented a temporary extension to the Rental Pre-Eviction Notification Ordinance. Effective immediately, the period landlords must provide written notice to tenants before filing an eviction has doubled from 30 days to 60 days. This emergency measure, authored by Council Member Robin Wonsley, is intended to support residents facing financial instability due to recent federal immigration enforcement activities known as Operation Metro Surge. This 60-day requirement will remain in effect through August 31, 2026.

Public Health Advisory: Dermatophyte Outbreak

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) continues to monitor a localized outbreak of a sexually transmitted dermatophyte (fungal infection) first identified in February 2026. Residents are encouraged to seek medical evaluation for any unusual skin rashes or lesions. Healthcare providers are instructed to follow standard MDH protocols for testing and reporting suspected cases to help contain the spread within the Twin Cities metro area.

Public Service Announcements and Proclamations

The City of Minneapolis joins the State of Minnesota in recognizing several official observances for the first week of March:

• Women in Construction Week: Running through March 7, the city celebrates the contributions of women in the building trades and encourages participation in local workforce development programs.
• Reading and Youth Art Month: March is officially designated as Reading Month and Youth Art Month. Local libraries and parks will host special programming to promote literacy and creative expression among students.
• Seasonal Readiness: While a Snow Emergency is not currently active, the 311 service center reminds residents to maintain clear sidewalks within 24 hours of any snowfall to ensure pedestrian safety.