​Heads Up, East Metro: I-94 Traffic Changes

TWIN CITIES EAST METRO, MN — Beginning at 9 p.m., May 12, the right lane (local access lane) and all ramps on westbound Interstate 94 between Century Avenue and Mounds Boulevard will be closed to allow construction crews to complete traffic changes for the next construction stage, including reopening and closing a series of ramps throughout the project. These westbound closures will remain in effect until the following afternoon, Saturday, May 13.

This approach is the safest alternative for both drivers and the construction team while still allowing crews to accelerate the completion of the traffic switch, according to transit officials. Several ramp closures and openings along I-94 between Saint Paul and Maplewood have been rescheduled for May 13.

The following ramps are expected to re-open during the evening hours of Saturday, May 13:

• Westbound I-94 to southbound Highway 61/Etna Street
• Westbound I-94 to Hudson Road
• Hudson Road to westbound I-94 (the entrance ramp farthest to the east in front of 3M)

On that same evening, Saturday, May 13, the ramps below will close and remain closed through mid-summer:

• Westbound I-94 to Mounds Boulevard
• Southbound Highway 61/Etna Street to westbound I-94
• Northbound Highway 61 to westbound I-94
• Westbound I-94 to White Bear Avenue

These ramp openings and closures are needed as crews finish resurfacing the westbound lanes of I-94 in the project area.

The I-94 reconstruction and improvement project will provide a smoother, safer, long-lasting road with better pedestrian accessibility and improved drainage capabilities, according to a news release. Performing periodic pavement repairs at the appropriate times can greatly increase a road’s lifespan.

The project helps ensure MnDOT’s transportation system will continue to serve the state for many years. Construction is expected to be complete by fall 2017, according to transit officials.

Image via Google Streetview