Two-year project will repair eastbound bridges in 2026, reconstruct westbound bridges in 2027
Motorists traveling on Interstate 94 between Sauk Centre and Melrose, Stearns County, can expect periodic lane closures and delays as the Minnesota Department of Transportation begins a two-year project to update and reconstruct four bridges over the Sauk River on Monday, April 13.
Work will take place on the I-94 bridges east of Highway 71 in Sauk Centre and east of Highway near Melrose. In 2026, crews will make repairs and update two eastbound bridges, followed by full reconstruction of two westbound bridges in 2027.
What to expect through the 2026 work zones:
April 13 to late May: Prepare each work zone; install temporary crossovers in the median and other traffic control devices.
Expect segments of single-lane and shoulder closures, lane shifts and reduced speeds on both directions of I-94.
Lane closures will occur each week from Monday to 2 p.m. Friday.
Watch for workers and flashing equipment, especially at night when sight distances lessen.
Late May to late October: Update and resurface the eastbound bridge decks with a new concrete wearing course, which includes new approach panels, concrete joints, catch basins and guardrail.
Motorists will encounter single-lane, head-to-head traffic, 24/7, at each bridge location. Download a map from the project webpage.
Pay attention for multiple crews at work and be prepared for changes—lane shifts, no shoulders and real-time travel displays ahead of the work zones.
Reduced speeds of 60 miles per hour; slow down and do the zipper merge by using both lanes until the single-lane merge point.
In late October, work operations will suspend for the 2026-2027 winter season with each direction of I-94 back to two lanes. In 2027, crews will return to remove and reconstruct the westbound bridges.
Redstone Construction, LLC, is the prime contractor for this $10.3 million project. When finished in fall 2027, travelers will benefit from smoother and safer bridge surfaces, reduced maintenance needs and long-term costs, and improved freight movement along I‑94.
Visit the project webpage for more information: www.mndot.gov/d3/i94/sauk-river/.
For more information on projects in central Minnesota, go to mndot.gov/d3/projects, or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/MnDOTcentral.
Get real-time traffic and road conditions on Minnesota highways at 511mn.org or the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.
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