Weekend (August 15-Fri) I-94 Closure Could Affect Early State Fair Travel — Here’s What You Need to Know
MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) will close a key section of Interstate 94 in both directions this weekend, part of an ongoing bridge repair and resurfacing project in Minneapolis that could affect early travel ahead of the Minnesota State Fair.
The full closure begins Friday, August 15, at 10 p.m., and continues until Monday, August 18, at 5 a.m. It affects both eastbound and westbound lanes of I-94 between Interstate 35W and Highway 280, with all entrance and exit ramps in that stretch closing at 9 p.m. Friday — including the ramp from eastbound I-94 to eastbound Highway 55.
The work is part of a project to repair and resurface five bridges along the corridor. Detours will route traffic north on I-35W, west on Highway 36, and south on I-35E before reconnecting with I-94.
Minimal Impact Expected for Fairgoers
MnDOT has scheduled the closure to minimize disruptions for State Fair travelers. The fair begins Thursday, August 21, and all lanes in the affected stretch are slated to reopen three days beforehand.
“By wrapping up this work before the gates open, we’re aiming to keep the Great Minnesota Get-Together accessible for everyone,” MnDOT said in a statement.
The pause will ensure all lanes are available for the heavy traffic expected during the fair’s run through Labor Day. However, MnDOT cautions that nearby roadwork could still slow travel for some drivers.
Construction Will Resume After Labor Day
Following the fair, MnDOT will resume work on the bridges, with periodic lane closures expected in September. A final deck sealant will be applied in spring 2026, requiring a few additional short-term closures.
When:Friday, August 15, 10 p.m. – Monday, August 18, 5 a.m.
Where: Complete closure of I-94 between I-35W and Highway 280, in both directions
Ramps Closed: All ramps in the closure zone, plus the EB I-94 → EB Hwy 55 ramp
Reason: Bridge repair and resurfacing work affecting five structures along the corridor
Detour:I-35W → Hwy 36 → I-35E → I-94 (posted signs will direct drivers)
Reopening: All lanes reopen by 5 a.m. Monday; Huron Blvd → EB I-94 ramp reopens Wednesday, August 20
State Fair Travel Tips
1. Use Transit Where Possible
Metro Transit is expanding service with express buses, park-and-ride shuttles, and rideshare drop-off zones near the fairgrounds. Transit officials expect strong ridership similar to 2024 and recommend checking schedules early.
2. Plan Ahead if Driving
If you must drive during the closure, allow extra time, follow detour signage, and check real-time updates on 511mn.org or MnDOT’s project page.
3. Keep the Timeline in Mind
Date & Time
Impact
Aug. 15, 9 p.m.
All ramps in closure zone close; EB I-94 → EB Hwy 55 ramp closes
Aug. 15, 10 p.m.
Full I-94 closure begins between I-35W and Hwy 280
Aug. 18, 5 a.m.
I-94 reopens for State Fair travel, except Huron Blvd ramp
Aug. 20
Huron Blvd → EB I-94 ramp reopens
Post–Labor Day
Periodic lane closures resume in September
Spring 2026
Final deck sealing work
Bottom line:The August 15–18 I-94 closure is a short-term inconvenience designed to keep the State Fair fully accessible. Fairgoers can avoid stress by considering public transit or planning detours ahead of time.
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