Rum River Boulevard Closure for Seelye Brook Bridge Reconstruction

Anoka, MN

Drivers in Anoka County should prepare for a temporary road closure beginning in early March as county officials move forward with a bridge reconstruction project in the City of Oak Grove.

According to the Anoka County Highway Department, Rum River Boulevard (County State Aid Highway 7) will be fully closed between 218th Avenue and 219th Avenue beginning Monday, March 9, 2026. The closure will remain in effect until June 5, 2026, weather permitting.

The closure is necessary to allow for the reconstruction and replacement of the Seelye Brook Bridge, an important piece of infrastructure along the Rum River Boulevard corridor. Because the work involves removing and rebuilding the bridge structure, traffic cannot safely pass through the construction zone during the project.

Seelye Brook flows through the Oak Grove area and feeds into the broader Rum River watershed. Bridges crossing smaller waterways like Seelye Brook are essential components of the region’s transportation network, particularly in areas where county highways connect rural communities and residential neighborhoods.

County engineers periodically evaluate bridge conditions across the transportation system. When a bridge reaches the end of its service life or no longer meets modern safety standards, counties typically schedule full replacement projects to ensure long term safety and reliability.

To maintain traffic flow during the closure, the county has established a signed detour route using the following roads:

• CSAH 22 (Viking Boulevard)
• Minnesota Highway 47 (St. Francis Boulevard)
• CSAH 24 (227th Avenue)

All detour routes will be clearly marked with signage throughout the duration of the project.

Although the closure affects a relatively short stretch of roadway, Rum River Boulevard serves as a local connector for residents traveling between Oak Grove neighborhoods and nearby highways. Drivers are encouraged to plan extra travel time, follow posted detour routes, and use caution near construction zones.

Construction schedules may change depending on weather conditions, which can affect bridge and roadway work during Minnesota’s spring season.

Residents with questions about the project may contact the Anoka County Highway Department. The project contact listed by the county is Brett Mickelson, who can be reached at 763-324-3181.

The Seelye Brook Bridge reconstruction is part of Anoka County’s ongoing effort to maintain and improve the safety of its county road system. While the closure may cause temporary inconvenience, the project is intended to ensure safe and reliable travel along Rum River Boulevard for years to come.

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