News Release

(Roseville, Minn.) - The Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) will conduct a structural inspection of the I-494 Wakota bridge over the Mississippi River on June 17 and June 18. The bridge inspection will require that the right lane of westbound I-494 be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17 and Wednesday, June 18. Weather permitting, all inspections will be completed by June 18.

The Wakota bridge is inspected annually to look for structural problems that could affect the bridge's ability to carry traffic safely. Construction of a new Wakota bridge began this spring. However, the current bridge will need to continue to carry traffic until the new westbound I-494 bridge is opened in late 2005.

Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes if possible or to give themselves extra time to get through this congested area.

Mn/DOT reminds motorists to SLOW DOWN in the work zone and NEVER enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones. Please join us in a safety partnership.

For up-to-date weather related road conditions, congestion levels, traffic incidents and construction, by phone call 511 or on the Internet visit 511mn.org for updated statewide traffic and travel information.

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