Washington Avenue Reconstruction Update

Via a May 5 e-newsletter from Hennepin County:

3rd Avenue lane reduction begins Monday

Starting early Monday, May 8, crews will be reducing traffic on 3rd Avenue South to one lane in each direction at Washington Avenue.

The lane reduction is necessary for crews to replace utilities, sidewalk, concrete, and pavement on the west half of that intersection. This work is anticipated to last approximately two weeks, weather permitting. If 3rd Avenue is part of your commute across the Mississippi River, you may want to consider other nearby crossings for the duration of this lane reduction.

Crews installing storm sewer pipe at the corner of 2nd Avenue South and Washington Avenue

 

Westbound Washington Avenue traffic to shift slightly Monday

Also, starting early Monday, motorists travelling west will still able to use Washington Avenue. However, westbound traffic on Washington Avenue will return to westbound lanes between 5th Avenue South and 2nd Avenue South. Crews recently completed work on the westbound lanes and now need to work on pavement removal and utility replacements in the eastbound lanes in the area.

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Eastbound lanes work continues

Finally, crews will begin paving eastbound Washington Avenue between Hennepin Avenue and 2nd Avenue South. The eastbound lanes remain closed and traffic continues to be detoured via Hennepin Avenue, 4th Street, and 5th Avenue.

 

Project progress

Crews have been very busy, and the project is currently ahead of schedule. While some of that time could be lost to weather and unforeseen challenges, the project has good momentum.

 

Staying safe

It is important to stay alert in the entire construction area, including during the evenings and weekends. Motorists should obey speed limits and limit distractions. Traffic changes, construction crews, equipment and work areas near the roadway can create unexpected situations.

 

Also allow for extra time when travelling through the area. While there is still pedestrian access, people should be ready for occasional changes in access.

 

Please be aware that there will be large construction equipment, and noise, vibrations and dust will be associated with this work. The county appreciates residents’ patience and understanding during these projects and activities.

  

Talk with us

You're invited to come and talk with a project representative. Join us at Dunn Brothers Coffee - Freight House at 201 3rd Avenue South next week:

- Tuesday, May 9: 10:30am - 11:30am  

- Thursday, May 11: 10:30am - 11:30am 

Anyone with questions or concerns are encouraged to stop in during this time.

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Get more information

- Learn more and sign up for project updates at http://www.hennepin.us/residents/transportation/washington-ave-mpls.

- Contact the project at washingtonave@hennepin.us or 612-543-3722.