Politics & Government

I-94 Reconstruction Could Mean Major Delays for Twin Cities Cabin Goers

A 2013 resurfacing project on I-94 from Clearwater to St. Cloud could bring potential backup of up to 20 miles or more during peak travel times, according to MnDOT.

As the Minnesota winter slowly gives way to spring, road construction projects around the Twin Cities and Minnesota are gearing up for another season.

Among the projects is a resurfacing 7.5 miles of Interstate 94 north of the Twin Cities from Clearwater to St. Cloud. The Minnesota Department of Transportation estimates the project could impact a backup of traffic of “20 miles or more during peak travel periods.”

With residents in Richfield and the rest of the metro getting ready to make travel plans for spring and summer, MnDOT is urging drivers to consider an alternate route during the Clearwater to St. Cloud I-94 reconstruction project.

Find out what's happening in Richfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“Find the best route that works for you based on where you’re leaving from and when and your destination,” said J.P. Gillach with MnDOT Communications and Public Affairs.

Traffic Impacts

Find out what's happening in Richfieldwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • The project started March 26 and expected to continue until July 26, 2013.
  • The stretch of Interstate 94 roadway from Clearwater to St. Cloud will be reduced to single-lane, two-way traffic 24-hours a day, seven days a week, except May 24-27 and July 2-7. The lane reduction is expected to begin April 1.
  • Intermittent lane closures July 8-26.
  • Expect “mild to moderate” backups during commuter rush hours Monday through Thursday mornings, according to MnDOT.
  • Plan for “potential backups of 20 miles or more during peak travel periods” Thursday afternoons to Sunday evenings, according to MnDOT.

Planning Ahead

Here are some spots to check before traveling north:

  • Click on the “Commute” tab on your local Patch.com site. Scroll or enter a city name on the map to check traffic condition to your destination.
  • For I-94 project information or real time traffic camera, visit: mndot.gov/d3/i94

Project Completion

Once the I-94 Clearwater to St. Cloud resurfacing is completed at the end of July 2013, MnDOT anticipates the new surface will last about 30 years.

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