Information about upcoming traffic impacts will be posted as details become available. Motorists can expect several weekend, nighttime, and directional closures along I-494 and I-35W. Ramps and loops will be closed at various times for construction. There will also be some lane and road closures on local roadways near I-494.
Road closures
Mon, Oct. 9
Permanent closure of Clover Dr. from American Blvd. to where road ends
Mon, Oct. 16 through late November
W. 78th St. is closed between Girard Ave. S. and the Shops at Lyndale parking lot entrance. Local business access along Girard Ave. will remain open.
Ramp closures
10 p.m. Sun, Oct. 1 through late October
The ramp from EB I-494 to SB Hwy 100/Normandale Blvd. is closed
Detour: Use the cloverleaf ramps at Hwy 100 from EB I-494 to SB Hwy 100/Normandale Blvd.
About this project
We are constructing E-ZPass lanes on I-494 from Hwy 100 to I-35W in each direction and adding a new ramp at the I-35W and I-494 interchange. We are also replacing the bridges crossing over I-494 at Portland Ave., Nicollet Ave., and 12th Ave., and adding a new pedestrian bridge at Chicago Ave. that crosses over I-494 to provide an additional pedestrian and bicycle connection across I-494.
When work is completed, the E-ZPass lanes and the new ramp at the I-35W and I-494 interchange will address congestion on the interstate. The new bridges at Portland, Nicollet, and 12th Ave. will accommodate future traffic levels, provide wider, accessible sidewalks, new bike lanes, and upgrades to some transit stations. We will be removing access to I-494 from Nicollet Ave. and 12th Ave., but will provide full access to I-494 from Portland Ave.
This is the first of four construction projects that are part of the I-494: Airport to Hwy 169 vision.
Summary of work
Add EZ-Pass lane on I-494 in both directions from Hwy 100 to I-35W
Modify interchanges along I-494 at Penn Ave., I-35W, Nicollet Ave., Portland Ave., and 12th Ave. and at I-35W/82nd St.
Reconstruct and repair pavement on I-494 and local roads
Reconfigure I-35W/I-494 interchange
Replace bridges at Nicollet Ave., Portland Ave., 12th Ave., and I-494 over I-35W
Repair bridges at France Ave. and Penn Ave.
Construct new pedestrian bridge near Chicago Ave. over I-494
Construct noise and retaining walls
Relocate or adjust multiple public and private utilities
Connect walking path and concrete bike path along Portland Ave.
Replace lighting, signage, and dynamic message boards
Improve ramps, sidewalks, and signals at multiple intersections
