A collective rejoicing and sigh of relief. That is, or at least should be, the reaction for many Twin Cities motorists and State Fair enthusiasts starting this weekend.
Highway 280 on the border of St. Paul and Minneapolis is reopening after being closed since April for resurfacing and ramp and bridge repair.
Nathan Bowie of the Minnesota Department of Transportation does say there is a change to one of the on-ramps to be aware of.
"If you are coming from westbound 94 and going northbound on 280, that entrance now is just one single lane," Bowie explains. "So folks should be prepared for that, pay attention, drive smart as you prepare for that new configuration."
It's not all done, however. But the good news is work will pause for the State Fair which draws a massive amount of traffic in the area. Bowie says there may be some periodic lane or ramp closures on 280 after the State Fair to finish up a few details.
"We know shutting down that road for this period has had impacts, and we appreciate folks' patience as crews have done their work," Bowie adds. "But things are in progress. The road looks great, and we're excited to open it back up again just in time for the fair."
There is also more work scheduled on the project in 2028.
Road closures
Through 12:01 a.m. Sat, Aug. 22
- Hwy 280 is closed in both directions between Hwy 36/I-35W and I-94
- Northbound detour: I-35W or I-94 to I-35E to Hwy 36 (PNG)
- Southbound detour: Hwy 36 to I-35E to I-94 (PNG)
Through 12:01 a.m. Sat, Aug. 22
- Broadway St. is closed in both directions between Industrial Blvd. and Hwy 280
- All other cross streets will remain open
Lane closures
Through 12:01 a.m. Sat, Aug. 22
- Energy Park Dr./Kasota Ave. is reduced to one lane in both directions under Hwy 280
Through 12:01 a.m. Sat, Aug. 22
- Expect short-term intermittent lane closures on cross streets while bridge work is being done
Ramp closures
Through 12:01 a.m. Sat, Aug. 22
- The following ramps are closed:
- Franklin Ave. to eastbound I-94
- I-94 to University Ave.
Through 11:59 p.m. Wed, Aug. 26
- The ramp from northbound Hwy 280 to St. Croix St./Terminal Rd. is closed
