Winter Pause Brings Temporary Relief to Highway 10 Construction in Coon Rapids

COON RAPIDS, Minn. — The ambitious, multi-million-dollar “Add-a-Lane” expansion of U.S. Highway 10 in Coon Rapids has entered its annual winter hiatus, providing temporary relief for commuters who have navigated lane closures and detours since spring.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and Anoka County announced that the majority of major construction activities on the 2.5-mile stretch between Hanson Boulevard (County Road 78) and Round Lake Boulevard (County Road 9) are now suspended. Cold temperatures and impending snow make large-scale paving and heavy construction impractical. This pause concludes a significant phase of the $40.5 million infrastructure upgrade, which began in late March 2025.

Major Progress Achieved

The project’s primary goal is to add a third through lane in each direction, easing severe congestion that often spills onto local roads. Along with widening the highway, the project includes repaving existing lanes, upgrading corridor lighting, and constructing new noise walls to reduce the impact of traffic on nearby neighborhoods.

Throughout the construction season, crews navigated frequent single-lane shifts, temporary ramp closures, and complex traffic patterns while keeping two lanes open in each direction. Significant closures, including the long-term closure of the loop ramp from southbound Round Lake Boulevard to eastbound Highway 10, were largely completed before the winter pause.

According to MnDOT, the heavy construction work — including widening, grading, and interchange improvements — is substantially complete. However, final surfacing, asphalt overlay, permanent striping, and some noise-wall installations will resume when warmer conditions return in spring 2026.

Seasonal Pause Is Standard Practice

Officials said the winter break is typical for major Northern infrastructure projects. “The vast majority of the heavy lifting for the ‘Add-a-Lane’ initiative is behind us,” said a representative from Anoka County’s Highway Department. “The temporary pause ensures crews can work safely and effectively. We expect to apply the final asphalt overlay and complete permanent striping in the spring.”

Impact on Commuters

For daily travelers on Highway 10, the winter pause brings some relief. With two to three lanes now largely available in each direction, traffic flow is expected to improve during peak hours. Drivers are still advised to remain alert for occasional detours, shoulder closures, and ongoing noise-wall construction. MnDOT recommends monitoring 511mn.org or the project’s official site for the latest updates.

The full project is scheduled for completion by late spring 2026, prior to Memorial Day. Once finished, the widened corridor is expected to significantly reduce congestion, enhance safety, and improve overall travel for residents and commuters in the Coon Rapids area.

MinneapoliMedia