D3 - I-94 Gap – Albertville to Monticello: 2024 -2026 construction
 
PHOTO EDITION
Here are photos taken by the I-94 Gap construction crew of bridge decks being poured with concrete on two separate overnights in mid/late August.
Westbound bridge widening in Monticello
 Crews work in the early morning to pour the concrete deck for the widened westbound bridge over Co. Rd. 75 (Broadway) and the BNSF railroad tracks in Monticello. When complete, the bridge will accommodate three lanes of westbound I-94.
 Concrete is pumped into the deck's formwork with reinforced steel bars (light green color).
 The concrete strengthens as it cures. In September, crews will return to overlay the durable concrete wearing surface.
Westbound I-94 bridge in Albertville
 Crews work on the westbound I-94 bridge deck. Photo taken from Wright Co. Rd. 19
 Concrete is pumped into the bridge deck support frames. Concrete is then vibrated to remove entrapped air, resulting in a denser, stronger consolidated material. Without vibration, air pockets can cause structural weakness known as honeycombing.
 This bridge deck is poured as one continuous slab, eliminating the need for a separate top course. A finishing machine is used to provide a uniform grade and surface. The wood frame supports will remain as the bridge cures and strengthens.
Work zone safety reminders
Drivers traveling too fast and not paying attention are the main causes of work zone crashes. Follow these safe driving tips:
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Obey posted speed limits. The fine for speeding in a work zone is $300.
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Drive undistracted. Avoid using phones, mobile devices, adjusting the radio – even eating – while in work zones.
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Move over. Give workers room to safely complete their work.
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Know before you go. Get real-time information about traffic and road conditions at 511mn.org
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Be patient. Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
- Take turns at merge point. Do the zipper merge.
- Avoid making unnecessary lane changes.
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Expect work zones to constantly change. Day to day you could experience lane shifts, closures, narrower lanes and moving vehicles.
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If a crash occurs and I-94 closes, use nearest exit and follow alternate route signs.
Current impacts through late fall
I-94 remains open to two lanes each way at peak travel times between St. Michael and Monticello. Motorists can expect lane shifts, no shoulders, concrete barriers and reduced speeds through the work zone.
Prior to construction starting, delays and sudden stops occurred on I-94 at peak travel times. This is still the case. Please consider travel times to avoid delays, especially during weekends, holidays and commuter peaks.
 I-94 Gap project location map. In 2025, crews will expand westbound I-94 to three lanes from east of Co. Rd. 37 in Albertville to Hwy 25 in Monticello.
When all six lanes open in fall 2026, the $76 million Corridors of Commerce-funded project will provide a smoother ride, extend the life of the interstate, improve freight access, increase capacity and reduce bottle necks, address area growth and improve motorist safety along I-94 in Wright County.
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