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MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Earl Street Sidewalk Construction Will Redirect Pedestrians as Saint Paul Advances Road and Utility Reconstruction
This week’s work includes sidewalks, curb and gutter, storm sewers and infiltration trenches, with a temporary pedestrian diversion expected between Maryland and Magnolia avenues.
SAINT PAUL, MN (October 26, 2026). Sidewalk construction will bring a temporary pedestrian diversion to part of Earl Street this week as Saint Paul continues a reconstruction project combining road improvements, utility replacement and drainage work.
The city’s October 23 update says pedestrians will be directed to Cypress Street and Frank Street once sidewalk construction starts between Maryland and Magnolia avenues. The diversion is expected to last approximately one week.
Earl Street remains closed to vehicle traffic between Maryland and York avenues. The city identifies pedestrian crossings at Geranium, Magnolia, Lawson and Jenks avenues, with routes subject to construction changes.
Several Types of Work Are Moving Together
During October 26–30, crews are scheduled to finish curb and gutter between Maryland and Magnolia avenues and begin sidewalk work there. Storm-sewer removal and installation will continue between Cook and York avenues, while infiltration trenches are planned at Case and Jenks avenues.
The preceding week included paving the bottom asphalt layer between Maryland and Magnolia, roadway-base work between Cook and Jenks, and watermain work between Cook and York. All activities remain dependent on weather and scheduling.
The broader first phase reconstructs approximately one mile between Minnehaha and Maryland avenues. Its scope includes the street, sidewalks, bicycle facilities, lighting, signs, pavement markings and improved sewer and water connections.
Project goals include improving drainage and stormwater treatment, repairing deteriorated pavement and making travel safer for people walking, bicycling and driving.
Access and Concrete Work Require Attention
The city’s construction information explains that different crews work at different depths, meaning a street may be excavated more than once as underground infrastructure and surface improvements are completed.
Residents should check their doors for construction notices and follow posted parking restrictions. Temporary driveway restrictions may occur, while one entrance to an affected alley is to remain accessible.
The city advises that newly poured concrete generally needs five to seven days to cure. Residents should not walk or drive across new sidewalks or driveway and alley aprons until those areas are reopened.
Funding and the Next Phase
Project materials identify the voter-approved Common Cent 1% local option sales tax and assessments to adjoining properties as funding sources. The city’s flyer is available in English, Hmong and Karen.
A second phase, between Minnehaha and Burns avenues, is scheduled for reconstruction in 2027. That future segment is separate from the work underway this fall.
For immediate construction questions, the city identifies onsite inspector Anthony Spoto at 651-627-7227 as the first contact. Project updates and email subscriptions are available at Saint Paul’s Earl Street project page.
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