Motorists traveling through the Highway 52 and Interstate 90 interchange will experience a significant traffic pattern change starting Tuesday, October 7th. Southbound Highway 52 traffic will move onto newly paved lanes on the west side of the highway. This adjustment is part of ongoing work to upgrade the vital transportation hub.
These changes are designed to allow construction crews to continue their work on the ramps located on the south side of I-90. Drivers should pay close attention to new signage and temporary exits as they navigate the area. The project aims to improve overall traffic flow and safety for thousands of daily commuters.
Key Takeaways
- Southbound Highway 52 traffic will shift to new west-side lanes.
- A new temporary exit will provide access to the eastbound I-90 on-ramp.
- MnDOT crews will continue ramp construction on I-90's south side.
- The Highway 52 detour at Marion remains in effect.
- All I-90 lanes will stay open in both directions.
New Traffic Patterns for Highway 52 Southbound
Beginning Tuesday, October 7th, drivers heading southbound on Highway 52 will no longer use the previous lanes. Instead, traffic will be directed to new pavement on the west side of the highway. This shift marks a crucial phase in the ongoing Highway 52/I-90 interchange improvement project.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has implemented these changes to facilitate further construction. Motorists should anticipate new road configurations and temporary markers. Following posted speed limits and construction zone directions is important for safety.
Project Snapshot
- Start Date of Shift: Tuesday, October 7th
- Affected Route: Southbound Highway 52
- Purpose: Enable ramp construction on south side of I-90
Accessing Eastbound I-90 On-Ramp
Drivers needing to access the eastbound I-90 on-ramp will use a new temporary exit. This temporary route is a direct result of the traffic shift on southbound Highway 52. Clear signage will guide motorists to this new access point.
MnDOT advises travelers to allow extra time for their commutes, especially during the initial days of the traffic pattern change. Familiarity with the new layout will develop over time, but caution is advised in the interim. This temporary exit is a critical component for maintaining access to I-90 while construction continues.
"Drivers should remain alert and follow all temporary signage. These changes are essential for the long-term improvements of this major interchange," a MnDOT spokesperson stated.
Continued Work on I-90 Ramps
With traffic moved to the new lanes, MnDOT crews can focus on the remaining construction work. The primary area of focus will be the ramps located on the south side of I-90. This work involves significant infrastructure upgrades, including paving, bridge work, and utility installations.
The overall project aims to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and improve the lifespan of the roadway infrastructure. These improvements are part of a larger initiative to modernize Minnesota's transportation network. The project represents a substantial investment in regional connectivity.
Project Background
The Highway 52/I-90 interchange is a critical junction connecting north-south and east-west traffic flows. Upgrading this interchange is a multi-phase project intended to handle increasing traffic volumes and improve freight movement. This specific phase addresses key ramp structures.
Current Detours and Road Status
Despite the new traffic shift, the detour for Highway 52 in both directions at Marion remains in place. This detour has been active for some time and will continue as planned. Motorists should continue to follow the established detour routes around Marion.
Good news for westbound I-90 travelers: they will still be able to exit onto northbound Highway 52. Similarly, southbound Highway 52 motorists will retain access to the westbound I-90 on-ramp. Interstate 90 itself will also remain open in both directions throughout this phase of construction.
Winter Break and Future Plans
The current Highway 52 detour is scheduled to be removed for the winter season by November 14th. This temporary reopening will provide some relief during colder months. However, construction on the interchange project is not complete.
New detours and traffic configurations are planned to begin in the spring. These future phases will continue the overall effort to finalize the interchange improvements. The public will receive updates as those plans are confirmed. The entire project is expected to span multiple construction seasons.
For individuals with disabilities needing assistance accessing public information, contact information is available. You can email [email protected] or call (507) 288-7555. This ensures all community members can receive necessary updates regarding the construction.
The ongoing work at the Highway 52/I-90 interchange is a complex undertaking. It requires cooperation from drivers to navigate the changing road conditions safely. These improvements are designed to serve the region's transportation needs for many years to come.
