Construction work on Hiawatha Avenue in Minneapolis begins on Tuesday, September 8, with traffic reduced to one lane in each direction as crews install new pedestrian safety measures at East 45th Street and East 46th Street.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) said the restrictions will remain in place between Minnehaha Parkway and East 44th Street until the project is expected to finish in December.
The $1.88 million scheme will introduce new pedestrian signals and crosswalks, along with refuge areas for people crossing Highway 55. Turn lanes at East 46th Street will also be rebuilt to reduce turning speeds and improve drivers’ sightlines.
Hiawatha Avenue closures and diversions
A median fence will be installed between East 45th Street and East 46th Street to prevent people from crossing the road at unsafe points. MnDOT also plans to extend the kerb line on East 46th Street, shorten the crossing distance and realign a trail crossing near the light-rail tracks.
Further disruption is expected as the work progresses. East 46th Street will close between Hiawatha Avenue and the Metro Transit bus driveway and car park from October 1 to October 31, according to the latest project information. The northbound Hiawatha Avenue right-turn lane into East 46th Street is also due to close from mid-September through October.
Access to East 45th Street east of Hiawatha Avenue is expected to be restricted from October into December. Drivers are being advised to allow extra time and follow signed diversions, with traffic arrangements subject to change because of weather and construction conditions.
The Metro Blue Line will continue to stop at 46th Street Station, while Metro Transit and Minnesota Valley Transit Authority buses will maintain service there. Passengers should expect some additional journey time, and pedestrian detours will be marked at the site.
MnDOT said the improvements are intended to make the two junctions safer and more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists, public transport users and motorists. The department has not yet given a firm completion date beyond the expected end of December.
