Transportation

MnDOT celebrating completion of massive I-35W construction in Minneapolis

Cars drive on Interstate 35W in Minneapolis
Motorists drive along Interstate 35W on Friday in Minneapolis. Much of the stretch of the highway from Interstate 94 to Minnesota Highway 62 closed soon after as a huge reconstruction project began.
Mark Zdechlik | MPR News

The work to replace a half-century-old section of busy Minneapolis freeway began nearly four years ago. For commuters and local residents, the project has meant major detours and delays.

On Friday, a host of public officials will gather to celebrate the project’s completion.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation says much has been accomplished: nearly a dozen new bridges, new access ramps to Lake Street, as well as a transit station scheduled to open later this year. All of those, MnDOT says, will reduce congestion, bringing down travel times for motorists.

The massive project also adds new E-ZPass lanes and improved access for bicyclists and walkers.