Metro - I-494 Edina to Richfield: 2023-2026 construction
As crews continue to improve I-494 this spring, we would like to let you know about upcoming road closures on Clover Dr. and American Blvd. in Bloomington, and a portion of 78th St. in Richfield.
Permanent closures of Clover Drive and a portion of 78th Street begin March 4
Starting at 5 a.m. Mon, March 4, crews will permanently close Clover Dr. between Dupont Ave. South and West 80 ½ St. in Bloomington. This closure is needed to accommodate space for new ramp alignments, including a flyover ramp from northbound I-35W to westbound I-494, and new stormwater infrastructure.
Also starting at 5 a.m. Mon, March 4, crews will permanently close 78th St. between Portland Ave. and Chicago Ave. in Richfield on the north side of I-494. This closure is necessary so crews can construct a pedestrian bridge over I-494 at Chicago Ave. and add new bike and walking paths.
Construction work on American Boulevard in Bloomington begins in April
Starting in early April, crews will begin work to realign American Blvd. in Bloomington. To allow crews to make these improvements, American Blvd. will be closed in both directions between Hwy 100 and France Ave. through late summer. Work will also include utility improvements, retaining wall construction, and roadway reconfiguration.
Tree removal along I-494 starting soon
Starting this month, you may see crews working on the shoulders of I-494 between Edina and Richfield to remove trees. This work is to prepare the area for construction that will be taking place this summer. We will make sure that only those trees that interfere with construction will be removed.
Please note that timeframes are all approximate, subject to change and weather and schedule permitting.
We are constructing E-Z Pass lanes from Hwy 100 to I-35W in each direction and adding a new ramp at the I-35W and I-494 interchange. We are also replacing the bridges crossing over I-494 at Portland Ave., Nicollet Ave., and 12th Ave., and adding a new pedestrian bridge at Chicago Ave.
Motorists can expect lane, ramp, overnight and weekend directional closures along I-494 and I-35W at various times for construction through 2026. There will also be some lane and road closures on local roadways near I-494.
When work is completed, the E-Z Pass lanes and the new ramp at the I-35W and I-494 interchange will address congestion on the interstate. The new bridges at Portland, Nicollet, and 12th Ave. will accommodate future traffic levels, provide wider, accessible sidewalks, new bike lanes, and upgrades to some transit stations. We will be removing access to I-494 from Nicollet Ave. and 12th Ave., but will provide full access to I-494 from Portland Ave.
For more information, including upcoming traffic impacts and detours, visit the project webpage. Please contact the project team with any questions.
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