MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Three-Week Snelling Avenue Lane Reduction Begins as Roseville-Arden Hills Project Advances

ROSEVILLE, MN (July 12, 2026) Drivers using southbound Snelling Avenue through Roseville should prepare for delays during a three-week lane reduction connected to stormwater and roadway improvements.

Southbound Highway 51, commonly known as Snelling Avenue, has been reduced to one lane between Old Snelling Avenue, also designated as County Road 76, and Asbury Avenue.

The restriction began Friday and is expected to remain in place through the end of Monday, July 27.

Construction crews will use the closure to install storm-sewer drainage pipes along the western side of the highway, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Wider Project Extends Into Arden Hills

The lane reduction is part of a larger project repairing and resurfacing Snelling Avenue between Highway 36 in Roseville and Grey Fox Road in Arden Hills.

In addition to resurfacing the roadway, the project will create a new trail connection between Lydia Avenue and northern Snelling Avenue, update traffic signals, and improve accessibility at pedestrian ramps.

MnDOT says the work is intended to extend the useful life of the pavement, improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and make the corridor safer and more accessible.

Repairs began in early May.

The principal highway work is expected to be completed by late August, before the Minnesota State Fair. Additional signal-system work is scheduled to begin after Labor Day and continue until early October.

Regional Travel Implications

Snelling Avenue is a major north-south route connecting Saint Paul, Falcon Heights, Roseville, Arden Hills, and surrounding communities.

The corridor carries local traffic as well as drivers traveling to businesses, schools, parks, medical offices, and regional destinations. Reducing southbound traffic to one lane could cause backups during morning and afternoon travel periods.

The effects may also extend to adjacent streets as drivers seek alternate routes.

Motorists should allow additional travel time, watch for workers and construction equipment, and avoid abrupt lane changes near the work area.

Drivers should also be prepared for temporary changes that may not appear immediately in navigation applications.

Pedestrian and Trail Improvements

Although the most immediate impact will be slower vehicle travel, the project also includes improvements for people walking, biking, or using mobility devices.

Upgraded pedestrian ramps are intended to improve accessibility at intersections. The planned trail segment will create a new connection between Lydia Avenue and Snelling Avenue North.

The effectiveness of those improvements will depend on the final design, intersection connections, maintenance, and how safely users can navigate the wider corridor.

Schedule May Change

All construction schedules and traffic restrictions remain dependent on weather and field conditions.

Drivers should consult Minnesota 511 for current traffic information before traveling.

Project details and updates are available through the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

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