I-35 Off-Peak Lane Closures Expected Through August

FOREST LAKE, MN — Motorists will encounter periodic lane closures on southbound Interstate 35 near Highway 8 in Forest Lake through August as crews prepare for future construction of the new loop ramp from westbound Highway 8 to southbound I-35.

The lane restrictions will occur during off-peak hours. Southbound I-35 may be reduced to two lanes between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Any additional lane closures needed will occur overnight between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m.

Minnesota motorists can check daily real-time traffic updates by calling 511.

Traffic delays and backups are expected throughout the course of the two-year project. Motorists are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time to reach their destinations.

The work is part of the I-35 North Metro Split project, which includes resurfacing the existing pavement from the I-35W/I-35E split to Highway 8; replacing the Highway 97 bridge with a diverging diamond interchange; replacing the northbound I-35W bridge over I-35E and the westbound Highway 8 bridge over I-35. The project will provide a better ride quality, as well as improve safety and traffic flow at the Highway 97 interchange.

Image via Minnesota Department of Transportation