Franklin Ave. Bridge over 35W now closed until mid-2018

MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) - The Franklin Avenue Bridge over Interstate 35W in Minneapolis is now closed until the middle of next year as part of a five-step plan to renovate the bridge. That means no cars, no pedestrians and no Metro Transit buses can cross 35W on Franklin until next summer, while crews remove and replace the bridge deck.

The project will still have an impact on 35W traffic which runs underneath Franklin. Drivers can expect lane restrictions and closures on 35W while the bridge is demolished. Major closures of 35W are already scheduled for two weekends between late September and early October.

Drivers should follow the posted detours. Westbound traffic will use Portland Avenue to 26th Street to 3rd Avenue. Eastbound traffic will use Nicollet Avenue to 28th Street to Park Avenue. Pedestrians and bicyclists should use the 24th Street pedestrian bridge to cross 35W.

The new bridge is expected to open in mid-2018.

The Franklin Bridge closure is part of the 35W/94 Downtown to Crosstown project to improve accessibility, safety and mobility in the area, including better access to the Lake Street business district and transit service on I-35W and Lake Street. Work is anticipated to be completed in fall 2021.