Major I-35W Closure To Affect Metro Traffic This Weekend

Bridge removal, paving, and general maintenance will completely close a major stretch of I-35W in the Twin Cities Metro this weekend - forcing drivers to take alternate routes. The close will occur on the stretch of I-35W that runs between Burnsville and Bloomington - specifically between I-35E and I-494.

Initial impact will occur starting around 8:00 PM on Friday, July 7; All lanes in both directions will close to traffic beginning later at 10:00 PM and aren't expected to re-open until Monday, July 10 at 5:00 AM.

The main reason for the closure is the removal of bridges on the route - specifically the 86th Street Bridge and a portion of the 82nd Street Bridge deck.  However, since the roadway will be closed already, MNDOT crews will utilize the time to repave lanes and perform other maintenance work.

Detours will be as follows:

• For Northbound I-35W:  Drivers should follow the detour at I-35E, Cedar Avenue and Highway 77 and I-494.
• For Southbound I-35W:  Drivers should use I-494, Cedar Avenue and Highway 77 and I-35E.