35th Street and Nicollet Avenue intersection closure begins July 9
Starting on Monday, July 9, weather permitting, the 35th Street and Nicollet Avenue intersection in south Minneapolis will close to motor vehicles. This intersection will be under construction for about two weeks, affecting traffic that uses the 35th/36th Street exit off of Interstate 35W. Meanwhile, access to all businesses along Nicollet Avenue will be maintained.
The corner of Nicollet Avenue and 35th Street is a major crossroad for people heading into and around south Minneapolis. An average of 10,000 vehicles pass through this intersection on 35th Street every day, with another 8,000 vehicles coming through on Nicollet. Much of the traffic on 35th Street is due to vehicles exiting I-35W for these nearby neighborhoods, the Lakes and Uptown areas.
From July 9 to approximately July 23, the intersection will close for underground storm sewer connection work and paving. Drivers who regularly use 35th Street will need to use alternate routes during construction.
Alternate routes
Drivers who exit I-35W at 35th Street are encouraged to use other freeway exits.
The 46th Street exit a mile south of the 35th/36th Street exit will remain open, and may be a more convenient option for many drivers. The 31st Street exit may also be an option for some drivers.
Drivers who need to head south of the intersection can take Stevens Avenue south to 38th Street.
Drivers who need to head north of the intersection will still be able to take 35th Street to 1st Avenue South. This street is one-way, heading northbound toward downtown Minneapolis.
The City will continue to monitor and evaluate the traffic situation during construction, and changes may be made to improve traffic flow.
The work is part of the two-year Nicollet Avenue reconstruction project. This year, the street is being reconstructed from Lake Street to 36th Street. However, while the 35th Street/Nicollet Avenue intersection is under construction, the rest of Nicollet Avenue will be open to traffic. Also, as with all construction taking place during this project, access to every business along Nicollet will be maintained.
Once the intersection of 35th Street and Nicollet Avenue reopens, crews will begin to reconstruct Nicollet from 32nd Street to 35th street.
For more information on the Nicollet Avenue reconstruction project, go to www.minneapolismn.gov/cip/2012 and click on “Nicollet Avenue.”
Businesses on Nicollet remain open
Throughout construction, businesses are open on Nicollet Avenue and access to them will be maintained.
The City of Minneapolis and the Lyndale Neighborhood Business Association have launched a campaign to encourage folks to get to know and support Nicollet Avenue businesses during the rebirth Nicollet Avenue South. People who shop at businesses in the area during construction can earn points that can be redeemed for prizes and special offers. More information is available at the Live Nicollet website.
Published Jul. 6, 2012