Crashes Are Up On New Bridge In Twin Cities Metro: Report

SAINT PAUL, MN — Crashes on the northbound portion of the new Lafayette River Bridge are up fourfold since it reopened in 2015, according to a new report.

The bridge takes traffic from northbound Highway 52 and funnels it into either 7th Street or to Interstates 94 and 35E. The problem? Drivers often aren't sure which lane they're supposed to be in until it's too late.

"We are seeing crash problems as the center lane backs up pretty far," MnDOT metro engineer Melissa Barnes told the Star Tribune. "The center lane is not functioning as it should be."

Transit officials now plan to install an overhead electronic message board that will provide information on which lane motorists should be in.

Read more at the Star Tribune.