Construction on eastbound Interstate 90 east of Blue Earth begins April 15
MANKATO, Minn. – The final year of construction on Interstate 90 east of Blue Earth is expected to begin on Monday, April 15, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
MnDOT is resurfacing approximately 20 miles of I-90 from Highway 169 near Blue Earth to Highway 22 south of Wells. This is the second year of a two-year project. Construction this year includes resurfacing eastbound I-90, as well as ramps, bridges, culverts, and lighting along the project. Pavement at the eastbound and westbound I-90 rest areas west of Blue Earth will also be improved as part of this year’s project, along with sidewalk to meet Americans with Disability Act standards. Construction on the westbound lanes of I-90 was completed in 2023.
To commemorate the completion of I-90 in 1978, concrete panels near Blue Earth were tinted gold, reminiscent of the ‘Golden Spike’ that symbolized completion of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad in 1869. In 2006, when I-90 needed repaving, most of the golden panels were paved over. As part of this project, the golden panels will be reestablished in their same locations across both the eastbound and westbound lanes of I-90.
Traffic impacts
During the initial stages of construction beginning April 15, motorists can expect lane and shoulder closures on eastbound and westbound I-90.
Starting Monday, April 24, weather permitting, eastbound traffic will be shifted to the westbound lanes. Traffic will be maintained with two-way traffic, one lane in each direction, in the westbound lanes. I-90 will remain open to traffic during construction. Eastbound ramps at interchanges will be closed at varying times during construction. All ramps at the Highway 169 interchange near Blue Earth are anticipated to remain open during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Additionally, the eastbound and westbound I-90 rest areas located just west of Blue Earth will be temporarily closed during construction as pavement in the parking areas will be replaced.
The project is expected to be complete in late-October, weather permitting.
Project benefits, cost
Benefits of the project include improved pavement, bridges, drainage, and lighting. Other benefits include improved sidewalks at the Blue Earth Rest Areas to comply with the Americans with Disability Act. PCiRoads is the prime contractor on the $90,100,000.00 project.
Stay connected, informed
- Visit the I-90 project website for more information and to sign up for email and text message updates.
- Information will also be shared on the MnDOT South Central Minnesota Facebook group and follow us on X @mndotscentral.
- For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.
Important reminders for motorists regarding work zone safety:
- Slow down when approaching every work zone
- Never enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones
- Stay alert; watch for workers and slow-moving equipment
- Obey posted speed limits. Fine for a violation in a work zone is $300
- Minimize distractions behind the wheel
- Be patient; expect delays, especially during peak travel times
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