MnDOT announces on-time Highway 280 reopening ahead of State Fair
ROSEVILLE, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation is preparing to reopen Highway 280 between Interstate 94 in St. Paul and Highway 36/I-35W in Roseville. Weather permitting, both directions of Highway 280 will reopen by early Friday morning, Aug. 21, on time and in time for the Minnesota State Fair.
There will be no significant work on Highway 280, or ramp or lane closures on Highway 280, during the fair.
MnDOT thanks motorists, residents, businesses and the surrounding communities for their patience and understanding throughout construction. The project included resurfacing Highway 280, repairing bridges, repairing and resurfacing ramps, improving drainage and making additional safety improvements.
The highway has been fully closed during construction, allowing crews to complete work more quickly and safely. Once Highway 280 reopens, motorists should be aware of several changes and ongoing construction activities in the area.
Highway 280 reopening
Highway 280 will reopen in both directions Friday morning, Aug. 21, weather permitting.
After the State Fair, MnDOT will limit traffic impacts to short-term lane and ramp closures through fall 2026. Highway 280 will remain open to traffic and will not be fully closed again this fall.
Traffic signals at the Larpenteur Avenue ramps have been covered during the Highway 280 closure. MnDOT will reactivate the signals before Highway 280 reopens to help drivers readjust to traffic patterns in the area.
Motorists should remain attentive to traffic signals and stop signs, including at the northbound Highway 280 ramps to and from Como Avenue, as traffic patterns change with the reopening of the highway.
Overnight lane closures near Highway 280
Motorists also should be aware of an overnight lane closure on southbound I-35W and westbound Highway 36 near Highway 280 from 10 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, to 5 a.m. Friday, Aug. 21. The closures are needed while crews remove road and ramp closure signage ahead of reopening Highway 280.
Plan ahead
With Highway 280 reopening before the State Fair, motorists should allow extra time, pay attention to changing traffic patterns and follow posted signs throughout the area.
MnDOT appreciates the community's patience and cooperation as crews complete this work and reopen an important regional transportation corridor.
For more information about the Highway 280 project, visit mndot.gov/metro/projects/hwy280stpaul-roseville.
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