MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Highway 280 Reopens Ahead of Minnesota State Fair After Months of Construction

SAINT PAUL, MN (August 22, 2026) Highway 280 has reopened in both directions between Interstate 94 in Saint Paul and Highway 36 and Interstate 35W in Roseville, restoring a major Twin Cities connection shortly before the Minnesota State Fair begins.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation closed northbound Highway 280 on April 13 and southbound Highway 280 on April 29 so construction crews could complete extensive road, bridge, ramp and drainage work.

The closure required through traffic to use regional detours involving Interstate 35W, Highway 36, Interstate 35E and Interstate 94. It also increased traffic on nearby routes, including Cleveland, Raymond and Snelling avenues.

The reopened highway will provide another north-south route for people traveling to the Minnesota State Fair, which begins Thursday, August 27.

The 2026 construction project includes resurfacing aging pavement, repairing bridges, improving and resurfacing ramps, replacing drainage infrastructure and completing other safety improvements. MnDOT says the work is intended to extend the service life of the roadway and bridges while providing a safer and smoother trip.

Although both directions have reopened, construction is not completely finished. Motorists should expect short-term lane and ramp closures after the State Fair as crews complete remaining work during the fall.

Additional bridge, pedestrian and accessibility improvements are scheduled for 2028.

Drivers should continue watching for construction workers, equipment and changing traffic controls. Project schedules and traffic effects can change because of weather or construction conditions.

Current closures and travel conditions are available through Minnesota 511. Detailed project information and construction updates are available on MnDOT’s Highway 280 project page.

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