Work continues on I-494 and I-35W interchange

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is constructing E-ZPass lanes on I-494 from Hwy 100 to I-35W in each direction and adding a new ramp at the I-35W and I-494 interchange. Work on this project began last spring and will continue through fall 2026. When work is completed, the E-ZPass lanes and the new ramp at the I-35W and I-494 interchange will address congestion on the interstate.

Crews are also replacing the bridges crossing over I-494 at Portland Avenue, Nicollet Avenue, and 12th Avenue, and adding a new pedestrian bridge at Chicago Avenue that crosses over I-494 to provide an additional pedestrian and bicycle connection across I-494. Visit blm.mn/i494 for the latest on ramp and lane closures.

When the project is complete, vehicles will no longer be able to access I-494 from Nicollet Avenue and 12th Avenue, but there will be full access to I-494 from Portland Avenue.

This is the first of four construction projects that are part of the I-494: Airport to Hwy 169 vision.