Construction resumes: Interstate 94 Gap project—Albertville to Monticello

Crews to expand eastbound in 2026

ST. CLOUD, Minn. – Travelers should plan for roadwork and delays on Interstate 94 between Albertville and Monticello as the Minnesota Department of Transportation resumes its third and final year of construction on the I-94 Gap project Tuesday, April 7.
In 2025, crews widened and reconstructed the westbound road surface, replaced underground drainage structures and built a new westbound bridge over Wright County Road 19 in Albertville. This year, MnDOT will expand eastbound I-94 to three lanes from County Road 19 in Albertville to Highway 25 in Monticello.
Crews will reconstruct the road surface, replace or repair underground drainage structures, and install a noise wall along eastbound I-94 just west of County Road 18 in Monticello.
What motorists can expect through the 2026 work zone:

April 7-21: Periodic single-lane closures on both directions of I-94 as crews set up the work zone and concrete barrier. Lane closures will occur at off-peak hours, mainly overnight between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. Watch for workers and flashing equipment, especially at night when sight distances lessen.
April 21-late October: I-94 will remain open to two lanes each way on the adjacent new westbound side as crews work on the eastbound side between Albertville and Monticello.

Pay attention and be prepared for changes—lane shifts, no shoulders, concrete barriers between eastbound and westbound traffic, real-time travel displays ahead of the work zone, multiple crews at work, changes to local access and reduced speeds
Consider alternate routes or travel at off-peak hours to avoid delays
If a crash occurs and I-94 closes, use nearest exit and follow alternate route signs
Know before you go. For current road impacts on I-94, visit 511mn.org

MnDOT realizes driving through a two-lane, head-to-head traffic setup with limited shoulders isn’t easy. Your continued support means a lot as we work together to close the gap on this stretch of I-94 for everyone.
When all six lanes open in late October 2026, the $76 million Corridors of Commerce-funded project will provide a smoother ride, extend the life of the interstate, improve freight access, increase capacity, reduce bottle necks, support area growth and enhance motorist safety along I-94 in Wright County.
For more information and to sign up for construction email updates, visit the I-94 Gap project web page at www.mndot.gov/d3/projects/i94gap/.

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