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Metro - Hwy 97 in Forest Lake project: 2025-2026 construction

Hwy 97 and Everton Avenue intersection opens to traffic September 7

Construction continues on the Hwy 97 project between I-35 and Hwy 61 in Forest Lake. Crews are finishing work on the intersection of Hwy 97 and Everton Ave. and expect to pave it this week. If the weather holds up, workers plan to reopen the Hwy 97 at Everton Ave. intersection to north-south traffic by 7 p.m. Sun, Sept. 7.

Then by 5 a.m. Mon, Sept. 8, one lane of traffic in each direction will be open on Hwy 97 from Everton Ave. to Falcon Ave. This local access is expected to remain open throughout the fall to support school transportation and connections to residents and businesses, which remain open during construction.

The work planned for the 2025 construction season between Hornsby St. and Falcon Ave. is on track to be complete by late fall. We currently expect that Hwy 97 will reopen to traffic by late November as planned.

Hwy 97 will be fully open to traffic from Hornsby St. to Forest Rd. throughout the winter season. Construction crews will return next spring to complete the last section of Hwy 97 from Falcon Ave. to Forest Rd. at that time.

We appreciate your patience while we make these improvements. Plan ahead by checking 511, and give yourself additional time to reach your destination. 

Please note that all timeframes are approximate, subject to change, and weather and schedule dependent. 

Please drive with care in work zones:

Slow down when approaching every work zone, then navigate with care and caution. Stay alert; work zones constantly change. Watch for workers and slow-moving equipment. Obey posted speed limits. The fine for a violation in a work zone is $300. Minimize distractions behind the wheel. Be patient; expect delays, especially during peak travel times.

More about this project

Construction has begun on Hwy 97 between I-35 and Hwy 61 in Forest Lake. Construction will include resurfacing the road, constructing a single-lane roundabout at Fenway Ave., building a multi-use trail for pedestrians and bicyclists, constructing medians and adding turn lanes in specific locations. The project is anticipated to be complete in fall 2026.

For more information, visit the Hwy 97 project webpage. If you have questions, please contact the project team.

Hwy 97 in Forest Lake project area map

If you need an ASL, a foreign language interpreter, or documents in an alternative format please contact Janet Miller at 651-366-4720 (711 or 1-800-627-3529 for MN Relay). If you need any other reasonable accommodation to participate, please email your request to ADArequest.dot@state.mn.us.