Engineering Links
Major Construction Projects
The Engineering Division coordinates most infrastructure construction projects. Engineering uses RT Vision - One Office public dashboard and ConneX to provide information about City projects in the planning stage, bidding documents and project management information.
Active project-sites map
Most current large- and small-scale road construction projects in Bloomington are displayed on the map below. You can zoom in and out, and click on a project (shown as red shapes on the map) for information about a project.
You may also use E-Subscribe to have project updates sent to you via email.
Pavement Management Program (PMP)
Curious about a local road construction project not listed on this page? It may be part of the City's Pavement Management Program, a systematic program of street rehabilitation and repair that ensures serviceable, safe roads at a reasonable cost.
Tips for Safely Maneuvering through Road Construction
The City offers these helpful reminders in dealing with Bloomington construction projects:
- Please observe posted detour and/or warning signs.
- Stay alert.
- Watch for signs, equipment and workers.
- Minimize distractions such as using cell phones, eating or drinking.
- Avoid tailgating.
- Follow posted speed limits.
- Stay in one lane while driving through a work zone.
Work zones can be danger zones if drivers don't use caution and good judgment. Driving too fast, not paying attention, following too closely and stopping suddenly are the major causes of crashes in work zones. Most people who are killed or injured in work zones are in vehicles passing through the work area.
Road Closures
Major City Projects
- Project map
- The project will be funded by South Loop Development Funds.
- Phase 1, which includes East Old Shakopee Road and 28th Avenue is anticipated to complete design in early 2021 and construction will begin in the Spring of 2021, completing in the Fall of 2021.
Based on the current and projected development in the South Loop District, it has been determined that a sanitary sewer upgrade is necessary to increase the capacity in the area to allow for the increase in flow. This project is intended to re-direct sanitary sewer flows away from the existing route on 24th Avenue, which has capacity constraints, and re-direct the flow south in a new sanitary sewer pipe on 28th Avenue from American Boulevard, and then west on East Old Shakopee Road.
Therefore, this project would include the installation of a new sanitary sewer pipe along 28th Avenue and a small segment of East Old Shakopee Road. The new pipe would connect into the existing sanitary sewer pipe on American Boulevard, just east of 28th Avenue, head south on 28th Avenue and west on East Old Shakopee Road, connecting into an existing line that was previously upgraded on East Old Shakopee Road, just west of 28th Avenue.
This sanitary sewer work will be completed with a combination of trenchless and open trench techniques.
The sanitary sewer installation near the intersection of 82nd Street and 28th Avenue will need to be completed by trenchless installation under the existing LRT tracks.
The first phase of sanitary sewer capacity improvements in the area includes the work described above on 28th Avenue and East Old Shakopee Road. This would be followed by the second phase of improvements in the area including the American Boulevard Sanitary Sewer Capacity Improvement Project, anticipated to occur in 2022. This sanitary sewer improvement would include American Boulevard from 28th Avenue to just east of 34th Avenue.
Updates
November 12, 2021
Paving is complete and southbound 28th Avenue along with eastbound 82nd Street have been re-opened to traffic. Final boulevard restoration is scheduled for late in the week of November 8.
November 5, 2021
Paving of the final layer of asphalt along with concrete work will complete late in the week of November 1. Final striping and boulevard restoration is scheduled for the week of November 8.
October 29, 2021
Paving of the first layer of asphalt is complete and maintenance holes have been raised. Concrete work is anticipated to complete by early in the week of November 1 and will be followed by paving of the final layer of asphalt.
October 22, 2021
Concrete work is anticipated to complete the week of October 25. Paving of the first layer of asphalt on the remainder of the project area is anticipated to complete by early in the week of October 25. Raising of maintenance holes is scheduled for the week of October 25, which will be followed by paving of the final layer of asphalt.
October 15, 2021
Concrete work on 28th Avenue along with the turn lane in the southeast quadrant of 24th Avenue and East Old Shakopee Road has started and will continue the week of October 18. Paving of the first layer of asphalt on 28th Avenue from East Old Shakopee Road to 82nd Street is scheduled for Friday, October 15. Grading on the remainder of 28th Avenue from 82nd Street to American Boulevard will continue the week of October 18.
October 8, 2021
Sanitary sewer installation is complete. Concrete work on 28th Avenue along with the turn lane in the southeast quadrant of 24th Avenue and East Old Shakopee Road has been slightly delayed and is scheduled to continue the week of October 11 along with grading of 28th Avenue.
September 30, 2021
Sanitary sewer installation in the last segment on 28th Avenue between American Boulevard and Lindau Lane is anticipated to complete by early in the week of October 4. Paving of the first layers of asphalt on East Old Shakopee Road are complete and will be re-opened to traffic by Friday, October 1. Concrete work on 28th Avenue along with the turn lane in the southeast quadrant of 24th Avenue and East Old Shakopee Road will continue the week of October 4.
September 24, 2021
Underground boring of sanitary sewer at 28th Avenue and American Boulevard is complete and sanitary sewer installation in the last segment on 28th Avenue between American Boulevard and Lindau Lane will continue the week of September 27. Concrete work has started on East Old Shakopee Road and 28th Avenue from East Old Shakopee Road to Lindau Lane and paving of the first layer of asphalt on East Old Shakopee Road is scheduled for the week of September 27. East Old Shakopee Road is anticipated to be re-opened to traffic late in the week of September 27 (weather permitting).
September 17, 2021
Underground boring of sanitary sewer at 28th Avenue and American Boulevard is anticipated to complete the week of September 20 and sanitary sewer installation will then continue between American Boulevard and Lindau Lane on 28th Avenue. The Contractor continues grading and placing aggregate base on East Old Shakopee Road and 28th Avenue from East Old Shakopee Road to Lindau Lane with concrete work anticipated to begin the week of September 20. Work also continues on the turn lane modification in the southeast quadrant of 24th Avenue and E Old Shakopee Road with concrete work anticipated to begin the week of September 20.
September 10, 2021
Sanitary sewer installation from 82nd Street to Lindau Lane will complete by early in the week of September 13 and will then move to the segment between Lindau Lane and American Boulevard. Underground boring of sanitary sewer under the LRT tracks at 82nd Street is complete and has moved up to 28th Avenue and American Boulevard. The Contractor will continue grading and placing aggregate base on East Old Shakopee Road and 28th Avenue from East Old Shakopee Road to 82nd Street the week of September 13. Work has also started on a turn lane modification in the southeast quadrant of 24th Avenue and E Old Shakopee Road.
September 3, 2021
Southbound 28th Avenue from American Boulevard to East Old Shakopee Road is closed. The Contractor has removed pavement from Lindau Lane to American Boulevard and will be setting up dewatering in that area prior to starting sanitary sewer installation.
Sanitary sewer installation will continue to head north on 28th Avenue from 82nd Street to Lindau Lane the week of September 6. Underground boring of sanitary sewer under the LRT tracks is anticipated to complete late in the week of August 30 and then move up to 28th Avenue and American Boulevard the week of September 6.
August 27, 2021
The current closure of southbound 28th Avenue from Lindau Lane to East Old Shakopee Road will be extended north to American Boulevard the week of August 30. The Contractor will be removing pavement and setting up dewatering in that area prior to starting sanitary sewer installation.
Sanitary sewer installation continues to head north on 28th Avenue from E Old Shakopee Road to 82nd Street and is anticipated to move up to the segment between 82nd Street and Lindau Lane the week of August 30. Underground boring of sanitary sewer under the LRT tracks is anticipated to complete late in the week of August 30 and then move up to 28th Avenue and American Boulevard.
August 13, 2021
Sanitary sewer installation will continue to head north on 28th Avenue from East Old Shakopee Road over the coming weeks. Installation of pits for the boring of sanitary sewer under the LRT tracks will complete the week of August 16 and boring of the pipe will begin under the LRT tracks.
August 6, 2021
Sanitary sewer installation heading north on 28th Avenue from East Old Shakopee Road has been slowed due to some private utility conflicts, but will continue the week of August 9. Another crew will be starting at 82nd Street and 28th Avenue the week of August 9, and will be boring sanitary sewer under the LRT tracks. Eastbound 82nd Street is currently closed from 26th Avenue to 28th Avenue to complete this work.
July 30, 2021
Sanitary sewer installation continues on East Old Shakopee Road and is anticipated to begin heading north on 28th Avenue the week of August 2. East Old Shakopee Road from 24th Avenue to 28th Avenue along with southbound 28th Avenue from Lindau Lane to East Old Shakopee Road are currently closed. The Contractor is also planning to begin work near the intersection of 82nd Street and 28th Avenue the week of August 2. Eastbound 82nd Street will be closed from 26th Avenue to 28th Avenue starting August 4 for approximately 2 months.
July 23, 2021
The Contractor will be starting sanitary sewer installation on East Old Shakopee Road late in the week of July 19. East Old Shakopee Road from 24th Avenue to 28th Avenue along with southbound 28th Avenue from Lindau Lane to East Old Shakopee Road are currently closed.
July 16, 2021
Construction has started and East Old Shakopee Road from 24th Avenue to 28th Avenue is currently closed along with southbound 28th Avenue Lindau Lane to East Old Shakopee Road. The Contractor is completing pavement removals and setting up dewatering in the area. Pipe installation is anticipated to begin on East Old Shakopee Road the week of July 19.
What is the scope of this project?
The scope of this project includes the reconstruction of W. 106th Street between Lyndale Avenue and Verdi Road to be completed in 2021. As this area has undergone several years of adjacent projects, the goal of the 106th Street Project is to reconstruct this section of road in a manner that will integrate design elements from all of the recent projects.
Beginning with the MnDOT 35W River Bridge Project, the design and construction of the new bridge over W. 106th Street was coordinated with the City to accommodate this proposed project. The underpass of the bridge is significant as it was built to a wider span that will not only increase pedestrian and motorist safety, but will also facilitate a new road section that will include four lanes of travel, two shoulders, a median, and boulevard separated trails on both sides of W. 106th Street. The connection to on-ramps and off-ramps for 35W have also been coordinated with the 106th Street Project.
Within the project area, there are three frontage road segments that currently connect into W. 106th Street, which include; East Bloomington Freeway, West Bloomington Freeway and River Terrace. In advance of the 106th Street Project, West Bloomington Freeway and River Terrace will be closed permanently to vehicle traffic, though pedestrian access will be maintained with the use of new trail segments and existing sidewalk. The decision to close River Terrace and West Bloomington Freeway at W. 106th Street was reviewed and approved by City Council in November 2019.
For West Bloomington Freeway, the road will be closed at W. 106th Street with the construction of a cul-de-sac north of W. 106th Street. The cul-de-sac will be constructed to allow for emergency services and maintenance activities, as the West Bloomington Freeway corridor is MnDOT Right of Way, the project will coordinate and construct a dry pond to help manage stormwater runoff and water quality efforts for a future MnDOT project.
For River Terrace, the closure of River Terrace took place in the Fall of 2020 with the reconstruction of River Terrace as part of the 2020-101 PMP Street Improvement Project. The 2020 PMP Project will maintain pedestrian access to W. 106th Street through the construction of a new trail segment. The trail will then make a final connection to W. 106th Street with the coming project. Storm water runoff management and water quality improvement efforts have also been designed for the closure area on River Terrace.
The frontage road of East Bloomington Freeway is currently being reconstructed as part of the 2018-201 East Bloomington Freeway Improvement Project, and will include construction of a new multi-modal trail that will connect pedestrians from W. 106th Street to W. 99th Street. At the East Bloomington Freeway intersection, the 106th Street Project will finalize the road and trail connections and include a new traffic signal to ensure that the signal and its components are not in conflict with the new road and trail alignments.
Following the conclusion of the 106th Street Project, a final touch to the area will be applied through a creative placemaking project that will look to incorporate the character of the area. The creative placemaking process is currently underway and is being coordinated with the design and construction of the 106th Street Project.
How is the project funded?
The project will be funded using MnDOT Municipal State Aid funds.
What is the project schedule?
The project is anticipated to complete design in Spring 2021 with construction to begin in late summer 2021 and complete in 2022.
Updates
October 22, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
Paving of the final layer of asphalt, signing and striping is complete on West Bloomington Freeway and West 104th Street and the area has been re-opened to traffic. West Bloomington Freeway from West 106th Street to West 105th Street remains permanently closed. The next phase of the project which includes the reconstruction of West 106th Street from Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue will continue in Spring 2022.
October 15, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
Paving of the final layer of asphalt on West Bloomington Freeway is scheduled to complete on Friday, October 15. Permanent signing is scheduled for the week of October 18. West Bloomington Freeway and 104th Street will be re-opened to traffic when signing and striping is complete.
October 8, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
Concrete work and boulevard restoration is scheduled to complete the week of October 11 which will be followed by paving of the final layer of asphalt.
September 30, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
The first layer of asphalt has been paved on West Bloomington Freeway and W 104th Street. The remainder of concrete work along with boulevard restoration will continue the week of October 4.
September 24, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
Curb and gutter is installed on West Bloomington Freeway and the aggregate base will be fine graded in preparation for the first layer of asphalt, which is scheduled to be paved the week of September 27. The remainder of concrete work along with boulevard restoration will follow after paving.
September 17, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
Storm sewer installation is complete. Excavation and placement of aggregate base continues on West Bloomington Freeway and concrete work is scheduled to begin the work of September 20.
September 10, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
Storm sewer installation is nearly complete and excavation of the roadway will begin the week of September 13.
September 3, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
The Contractor will continue storm sewer installation the week of September 6, which will be followed by excavation of roadway later in the week or the week of September 13.
August 27, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
The Contractor has completed pavement removals and will be working on storm sewer installation the week of August 30, along with building a temporary bypass on the north side of 106th Street at the I-35W bridge for future phases. West Bloomington Freeway from 106th Street to 104th Street is currently closed for approximately 2 months and West Bloomington Freeway from 106th Street to 105th Street will be permanently closed with the construction project.
The closure of West Bloomington Freeway requires Metro Transit to re-route there buses that access the 104th Street and West Bloomington Freeway area. This re-route will need to use residential roadways to allow for bus service to remain open for the area and Metro Transit aims to find the shortest distance with least impact in delay to there bus route, while also impacting the least amount of properties. Starting Monday, August 30, Metro Transit will be utilizing the route of Humboldt Avenue to 102nd Street to West Bloomington Freeway to 100th Street to return back to Humboldt Avenue for the duration of the closure of West Bloomington Freeway at 104th Street.
August 24, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
The closure of West Bloomington Freeway between 104th St and 106th St requires Metro Transit to re-route there busses that access the 104th St and W Bloomington Freeway area. This re-route will need to use residential roadways to allow for bus service to remain open for the area.
Metro Transit is currently utilizing 106th St, Humboldt Ave, 102nd St, Girard Ave and 100th St to re-route busses back to Humboldt Ave and will be moving to a route that utilizes 106th St, Humboldt Ave, 102nd St, W Bloomington Freeway and 100th St starting the week of August 30 for approximately 6 weeks. Updates will continue to be made on the project website as work progresses.
August 19, 2021
W 106th Street (Verdi Road to Lyndale Avenue), W Bloomington Freeway (W 106th Street to W 104th Street)
W Bloomington Freeway from W 106th Street to W 104th Street will be closed on August 23 for approximately 2 months and W Bloomington Freeway from W 106th Street to W 105th Street will be permanently closed with the construction project. The Contractor plans to begin pavement removals, tree removals and utility work on W Bloomington Freeway the week of August 23.
August 13, 2021
W 106th St (from Verdi Rd to Lyndale Ave S)
A pre-construction conference was held on August 12 and the Contractor anticipates starting work the week of August 23. Construction in 2021 will mostly be concentrated on W Bloomington Freeway from W 106th Street to W 104th Street. W Bloomington Freeway from W 106th Street to W 104th Street will be closed on August 23 for approximately 2 months and W Bloomington Freeway from W 106th Street to W 105th Street will be permanently closed with the construction project.
July 30, 2021
W 106th St (from Verdi Rd to Lyndale Ave S)
A Pre-Construction meeting has been scheduled for the week of August 2. CenterPoint Energy has completed their work in the area and it is anticipated that street reconstruction will start either the week of August 9 or 16.
July 16, 2021
W 106th St (from Verdi Rd to Lyndale Ave S)
CenterPoint Energy will continue gas main installation the week of July 19. The Pre-Construction meeting for the W 106th Street Improvement Project is anticipated to occur in early August. More information will be given when a schedule has been determined for the start of construction.
October 9, 2020
An informational open house was held Wednesday, October 7, from 5:00 – 6:00 PM outside of the south entrance to Oak Grove Middle School. Staff presented exhibit showing concepts for the 106th Street Project. The pop up meeting adhered to a COVID-19 safety measures such as social distancing, one way flow, use of masks, and sanitizing gel and wipes. A total of twenty-six people signed in over the course of the hour. Attendees were provided exhibits detailing the scope of the project and were able to ask questions about all of the recent projects in the area.
October 2, 2020
Invitations to an informational open house were sent to residents in the area. The informational open house is scheduled for Wednesday, October 7 from 5:00 – 6:00 PM outside of the south entrance to Oak Grove Middle School.
What is the scope of this project?
This bridge preservation project will repair, maintain and extend the life span of four bridges in Bloomington. These four bridges include the American Boulevard Bridge over Highway 100 (Bridge # 27647), Auto Club Bridge (Bridge #27563) and both the Traffic Bridge (Bridge #27552) and Pedestrian Bridge at 106th Street over Nine Mile Creek (Bridge #27698).
MnDOT certified Bloomington city staff conducts routine inspections of all four bridges as part of a required 24-month frequency inspection. During these routine inspections, staff has determined that these four bridges will require further evaluation and preservation to continue to protect them and cost effectively extend their life span. This project is not intended to replace the bridges, but rather to include items of preventative maintenance and preservation to extend the life of the bridges. This evaluation and design will completed by a structural engineering consultant in cooperation with City staff.
How is the project funded?
The project will be funded by Municipal State Aid funds.
What is the project schedule?
Bridge evaluation and design will continue through 2020. It is anticipated that design will complete by early 2021 and construction will begin in the Spring of 2021 and complete by the Fall of 2021.
Updates
August 19, 2021
Painting of the American Boulevard bridge is complete and the W 106th Street bridge painting will complete this week. Painting of the Auto Club Road bridge is anticipated to complete the week of August 23.
August 6, 2021
Painting of the American Boulevard bridge is anticipated to complete the week of August 16. Painting of the Auto Club Road and W 106th Street bridges will begin when the American Boulevard bridge is complete. This work will be done under lane closures.
July 30, 2021
Painting of the American Boulevard bridge will continue the week of August 2. Painting of the Auto Club Road and W 106th Street bridges will begin when the American Boulevard bridge is complete. This work will be done under lane closures.
July 23, 2021
Painting of the American Boulevard bridge is anticipated to complete the week of July 26. Normandale Boulevard and Normandale Service Road have been re-opened to traffic. Painting of the Auto Club Road and W 106th Street bridges will begin when the American Boulevard bridge is complete. This work will be done under lane closures.
July 16, 2021
Painting of the American Boulevard bridge continues. Normandale Service Road underneath the American Boulevard bridge is currently closed and will remain closed until the week of July 19. Normandale Boulevard from 84th Street to I-494 will be closed on Friday, July 16 at 10pm until Monday, July 19 at 5am to allow for painting of the portion of the bridge over Normandale Boulevard. Painting of the Auto Club Road and W 106th Street bridges is anticipated to follow after the American Boulevard bridge painting is complete.
May 27, 2021
The second phase of concrete and bridge joint work has started on both the American Boulevard and Auto Club Road Bridges; one lane of traffic in both directions will remain open. This phase is anticipated to last until mid-late June. The Contractor anticipates starting work on the West 106th Street traffic and pedestrian bridges over Nine Mile Creek in early June.
May 13, 2021
Concrete and bridge joint work has started on the first phase of the Auto Club Road Bridge. Traffic has been shifted to one lane in both directions on the north side of the bridge. Work also continues on the south side of the American Boulevard bridge.
May 6, 2021
Concrete, asphalt and bridge joint work has started and will continue on the south side of the American Boulevard Bridge over Hwy 100 over the next 4-6 weeks. Traffic has been shifted to one lane in both directions on the north side of the bridge. The Contractor anticipates starting on the first phase of work on the Auto Club Road Bridge in mid-May. Traffic will be shifted to one lane in both directions when this work begins.
April 29, 2021
The Contractor is scheduled to begin concrete, asphalt and bridge joint work on the American Boulevard Bridge over Hwy 100 the week of May 3. This bridge work will be completed in two phases, with phase one including the south side of the bridge. Traffic will be shifted to one lane in both directions on the north side of the bridge for the first phase and each phase is anticipated to take approximately 6-8 weeks to complete.
Interstate projects
Scope
The scope of this project includes reconstruction of the East Bloomington Freeway from W. 106th Street to W. 99th Street and the construction of a sidewalk along the eastside. The road would remain as a one way at a reduced width to accommodate construction of a sidewalk. Work in the area will continue to be coordinated with MnDOT and Metro Transit Projects on W. 106th Street and W. 99th Street.
Virtual Open House
Display boards prepared for the project's open house
Updates
June 4, 2021
East Bloomington Freeway (W. 106th Street to W. 99th Street)
Grading of the trail base will continue into the week of April 26 and will be followed by paving of the trail area. Trail paving will also be followed by ditch grading and boulevard electrical work.
May 28, 2021
East Bloomington Freeway (W. 106th Street to W. 99th Street)
Concrete work for the area was completed the week of May 24. Boulevard grading and restoration of the area were delayed by rain and will continue into the week of May 31.
May 13, 2021
East Bloomington Freeway (W. 106th Street to W. 99th Street)
Trail paving is completed and boulevard restoration will continue the week of May 17.
April 23, 2021
East Bloomington Freeway (W. 106th Street to W. 99th Street)
Grading of the trail base will continue into the week of April 26 and will be followed by paving of the trail area. Trail paving will also be followed by ditch grading and boulevard electrical work.
April 16, 2021
East Bloomington Freeway (W. 106th Street to W. 99th Street)
Clean up and grading of the ditch and trail areas are scheduled to resume on Tuesday, April 20. Adjacent properties have been notified of the upcoming work.
From MnDOT:
The 2020 Hwy 77 Congestion Mitigation Study intends to identify potential congestion mitigation improvements for Hwy 77. The study will take updated origin-destination data, traffic volumes and travel trends, and pair the updated traffic information with planned improvements on I-494, and improvements on I-35W. The Study will identify viable short, medium and long term improvements and develop an implementation plan for identified improvements.
- Visit MnDOT's website for project info
Scope
MnDOT has begun construction of the I-35W Minnesota River Bridge project. This project will:
- Reconstruct I-35W Bridge spanning the Minnesota River
- Reconstruct I-35W Bridge spanning W 106th Street
- Replace pavement from Cliff Road to W 106th Street
- Construct northbound auxiliary/truck lane between Cliff Road and W 106th Street
- Construct a pedestrian/bike trail along the east side of the river bridge and connect to Black Dog Road and Lyndale Avenue
- Improve signing, lighting and drainage
Anticipated traffic impacts
Throughout the project MnDOT, is planning to maintain two to three lanes of traffic in each direction on I-35W, with a limited number of weekend closures.
MnDOT will be closing the southbound I-35W entrance ramp at W 106th Street in early October, and this ramp is expected to remain closed for most of the project. The northbound exit ramp at W 106th Street will also be closed during some portions of the construction.
Throughout the project, there will be construction traffic accessing the job trailer and work area on the north side of the river via I-35W to W 106th Street to Lyndale Avenue. While precautions will be taken to minimize the impacts of this traffic, please proceed with care when accessing businesses, neighborhoods, the boat landing and the trailheads in this area.
Funding
This is a MnDOT project with an estimated construction cost of $127 million.
Schedule
The construction began on August 20, 2018 and is expected to be completed in late 2021.
Updates
For additional project information and updates, please visit the MnDOT I-35W Minnesota River Bridge project website
Scope
MnDOT and its partners are working to plan and construct improvements on the I-494 corridor that travels through the cities of Bloomington, Richfield, Eden Prairie and Edina.
Funding
The corridor study and planning is being conducted and paid by MnDOT. In 2018, Corridors of Commerce, a state road improvement grant program, awarded the project $134 million to introduce MnPASS lanes from eastbound from France Avenue to Hwy 77 and westbound from Hwy 77 to I-35W. An additional $70 million was awarded to construct a directional ramp for northbound I-35W to westbound I-494 traffic.
Schedule
The corridor study began in June 2018. The project study, alternative analysis, and environmental assessment is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2019. Final design and right-of-way acquisition to be completed by the end of 2021.
Construction of Highway Expansion Project to take place between January 2022 and December 2023, with the possibility of some of the work being advanced to earlier years.
- For detailed project information, please visit the MnDOT project website.
Scope
The METRO Orange Line is a 17-mile planned highway Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line that will connect Minneapolis, Richfield, Bloomington, and Burnsville along I-35W. The Orange Line will provide frequent, all-day service in both directions, seven days a week.
A transitway will be built along Knox Avenue S, beneath I-494, to connect the Knox Avenue S and West 76th Street and Knox Avenue S and American Boulevard stations. Along with transit-only lanes, the Knox Avenue S Transitway will include a multi-use trail for pedestrians and bicyclists. The Knox Avenue S Transitway will make the trip between I-35W & W 98th St and I-35W & W 66th St stations 45-55 percent faster than current conditions on the Route 535.
Traffic impacts
The contractor will be utilizing temporary bypasses on I-494 to construct the underground transitway in two phases in 2020 and 2021. In order build the bypasses, the contractor will be utilizing temporary lane and ramp closures of I-494 in 2019.
Southtown Boulevard north of American Boulevard will be closed to thru traffic for the duration of the project. The private road north of American Blvd & Knox Ave S will be closed to thru traffic. Access to local business will remain open at all times.
Funding
Funding commitments for the Orange Line have been provided by the Counties Transit Improvement Board, the State of Minnesota, the Metropolitan Council, Hennepin County, Dakota County, and the Federal government. The estimated construction cost for the entire Orange Line BRT transit project is $150.7 million.
Schedule
The contractor will spend the remainder of 2019 relocating utilities and building the bypass on I-494. The underground transitway tunnel construction will begin in 2020 and finish in 2021. Fare service on the METRO Orange is scheduled to begin in 2021.
Updates
For additional project information and updates, please visit the METRO Orange Line website and subscribe to their construction bulletin.
Uncategorized major projects
Since 2013, CenterPoint Energy has conducted a multi-year construction project to replace and rehabilitate approximately 80 miles of 20" and 24" steel pipe that supplies natural gas to thousands of homes and businesses in the metro area. This construction project is needed to help increase reliability and safety and is part of CenterPoint Energy's standard maintenance and upkeep of the system.
From April to November 2021, CenterPoint Energy’s authorized contractors will work in Bloomington along Penn Avenue from 98th Street to Interstate 494. This project will happen in four phases:
- Phase 1: Michels Corporation will replace the first of the project’s two natural gas mains. This main is a distribution main that will feed the natural gas service lines to homes and businesses.
- Phase 2: Michels Corporation will connect the service lines to the distribution main.
- Phase 3: CenterPoint Energy’s authorized contractor will replace the second main. This main is a transmission main that will feed the distribution main.
- Phase 4: Q3 Contracting will restore the areas affected by work on the natural gas lines.
Additional information can be found on CenterPoint Energy's construction web page.
Updates
Project design and construction updates will be provided via this webpage (below), E-Subscribe and direct mailings to property owners near to the project.
October 29, 2021
Final gas main tie-ins will be completed this week. Final street restoration will continue the week of November 1 and is anticipated to complete by early in the week of November 8.
October 22, 2021
Final tie-ins to the new gas main are scheduled for late in the week of October 25. Street restoration will continue the week of October 25.
October 15, 2021
Gas main installation is anticipated to complete the week of October 18. Final tie-ins to the new gas main are scheduled for the week of October 25. Street restoration will continue heading south from 94th street the week of October 18 and the 96th Street access from Penn Avenue will re-open later in the week of October 18.
October 8, 2021
Gas main installation is progressing from 94th Street to 98th Street and access to 94th Street will be re-opened on October 8. Access to 96th Street on the east side of Penn Avenue will be closed on October 11 for approximately 2 weeks. Street restoration from 90th Street to 94th Street is scheduled for late in the week of October 4.
September 30, 2021
Northbound Penn Avenue is currently closed from 98th Street to 90th Street and work is progressing near the intersection of 94th Street. Access to 94th Street from Penn Avenue is closed and is anticipated to reopen later in the week of October 4. Street restoration from 90th Street to 86th Street is scheduled for late in the week of September 27.
September 24, 2021
The northbound closure of Penn Avenue will be extended from 94th Street to 98th Street on September 27 and pavement will be removed early in the week in that area as gas main installation continues to progress south toward 94th Street. Street restoration and paving of the area from 90th Street to the north on Penn Avenue will continue the week of September 27.
September 17, 2021
Gas main installation will continue to head south from 90th Street to 94th Street the week of September 20. Final tie-ins and testing of the new gas main from 79th Street to 86th Street is scheduled for the week of September 20 and will require lane closures on 86th Street east of Penn Avenue. 86th Street at Penn Avenue will remain open to traffic when this work occurs. 96th Street on the east side of Penn Avenue is anticipated to re-open early in the week of September 20.
September 10, 2021
Eastbound 90th Street at Penn Avenue is currently closed and will re-open early on September 13. Northbound Penn Avenue from 90th Street to 94th Street is closed and gas main installation will continue to head south from 90th Street to 94th Street over the coming weeks. The second crew is nearing completion at the north limits of the project at TCF Bank and Chick-Fil-A near 79th Street and Penn Avenue and will be testing the new gas main from that location to 86th Street the week of September 20 before it is put into service. 86th Street on the east side of Penn Ave is anticipated to be closed the week of September 20 for 3-4 days to complete the final tie-ins.
September 3, 2021
Gas main installation is completed up to Dixon Drive and the crew has moved down to Penn Avenue from 90th Street to Penn Lake Circle. Westbound 90th Street from Penn Avenue to approximately 250’ east is scheduled to re-open to traffic on September 3. Eastbound 90th Street will be closed at Penn Avenue on September 7 until the end of the week to complete gas main installation in that area.
Northbound Penn Avenue from 90th Street to 94th Street will also be closed on September 7 for approximately 4-6 weeks as gas main installation continues to head south from 90th Street. The second crew will continue to work on the north limits of the project at TCF Bank and Chick-Fil-A near 79th Street and Penn Avenue the week of September 6.
The current closure of 88th Street from Queen Avenue to Penn Avenue is anticipated to re-open the week of September 6. The closure of 96th Street on the east side of Penn Avenue will remain closed for another 1-2 weeks as crews work on regulator loops in the area.
August 27, 2021
Gas main installation is anticipated to reach Dixon Drive by the end of the week, weather permitting, and that crew will then move down to the area between 90th Street and Penn Lake Circle. Westbound 90th Street from Penn Avenue to approximately 250’ east is currently closed until the end of the week of August 30.
The second crew will continue to work on the north limits of the project near TCF Bank and Chick-Fil-A near 79th Street and Penn Avenue the week of August 30. The current closure of 88th Street from Queen Avenue to Penn Avenue is anticipated to re-open late in the week of August 30. The closure of 96th Street on the east side of Penn Avenue has been slightly delayed until the week of August 30 and will last approximately 2 weeks as crews work on regulator loops in the area.
August 19, 2021
Gas main installation is anticipated to reach Dixon Drive the week of August 23 and that crew will then move down to Penn Lake Circle and head south toward 90th Street. Westbound 90th Street from Penn Avenue to approximately 250’ east will be closed starting August 24 for approximately 1 ½ weeks to accommodate the work.
As work progresses south of 90th Street, which is anticipated to occur after Labor Day, northbound Penn Avenue will be closed and detoured. Side street accesses will be closed from Penn Avenue as work progresses. A second crew will continue to work on the north limits of the project near TCF Bank and Chick-Fil-A near 79th Street and Penn Avenue the week of August 23.
The distribution gas main crew will also need to close 96th Street on the east side of Penn Avenue the week of August 23 for approximately 2 weeks.
August 13, 2021
Work will continue to progress on Penn Avenue between American Boulevard and Dixon Drive over the next 1-2 weeks, then work will move down to Penn Lake Circle and begin heading south toward 98th Street. Side street accesses will be closed from Penn Avenue as work progresses. 88th Street from Penn Avenue to Queen Avenue is anticipated to re-open the week of August 16.
August 6, 2021
86th Street and 79th Street have been re-opened to traffic. Work will continue to progress on Penn Avenue between W 79th St and Dixon Drive the week of August 9 There is also an additional crew working in the area of 88th Street and Penn Avenue and this will require the closure of 88th Street from Queen Avenue to Penn Avenue early in the week of August 9. This closure will last approximately 2 weeks. Street restoration will continue to follow behind the gas main installation.
July 30, 2021
86th Street is anticipated to re-open to traffic on the east side of Penn Avenue mid-week of August 2. The Contractor will also be moving up to 79th Street on Penn Avenue and 79th Street access on the west side of Penn Avenue will be closed from July 30 – August 3 as work progresses through that intersection. Work will then continue to progress south of 79th Street later in the week. Street restoration will continue to follow behind the gas main installation.
July 23, 2021
Transmission gas main installation continues to head north of 86th Street on Penn Avenue and 86th Street will remain closed on the east side of Penn Avenue until the end of July or the first week of August. The Contractor will have another crew moving up to 79th Street on Penn Avenue late in the week of July 26. 79th Street access on the west side of Penn Avenue will be closed from July 30 – August 3 as work progresses through that intersection.
July 16, 2021
Transmission gas main installation continues to head north of 86th Street and 86th Street will remain closed on the east side of Penn Avenue until the end of July. The Contractor will continue to restore the pavement between 90th Street and 86th Street the week of July 19.
May 27, 2021
Westbound 86th Street at Penn Avenue was re-opened to traffic on May 25. Distribution gas main installation on Penn Avenue is anticipated to reach 90th Street the week of May 31. Lane closures along with truck turn restrictions will be in place in the intersection of 90th Street and Penn Avenue starting early in the week of May 31.
May 21, 2021
Westbound 86th Street will be closed on the east side of Penn Avenue early in the week of May 24 for gas main installation, and is anticipated to re-open within 1-2 days. A detour will be provided. The installation of distribution gas main and services will continue between 86th Street and 90th Street the week of May 24.
May 13, 2021
88th Street between Queen Avenue and Penn Avenue along with westbound 90th Street between Penn Avenue and Queen Avenue will reopen late in the week of May 10, or early the week of May 17 after restoration is completed. Work will also continue to head south on Penn Avenue towards 86th Street the week of May 17.
May 6, 2021
88th Street between Queen Avenue and Penn Avenue along with westbound 90th Street between Penn Avenue and Queen Avenue are anticipated to reopen late in the week of May 10 after work has completed on Penn Avenue in these locations. Work continues in the area of American Boulevard and Penn Avenue and will also continue to head south of Dixon Drive on Penn Avenue the week of May 10.
April 29, 2021
Work continues near the intersection of American Blvd and Penn Avenue and will begin heading south on Penn Avenue late in the week of May 3. A gas main crew is also working between 90th Street and 88th Street on Queen Avenue and Penn Avenue. This work requires lane closures on Penn Avenue and Queen Avenue, while 88th Street is currently closed between Penn Avenue and Queen Avenue with a detour provided. 88th Street is anticipated to reopen late in the week of May 3.
April 22, 2021
The distribution gas main replacement began on April 16 and is concentrated near the intersection of Penn Avenue and American Boulevard for the first couple of weeks, which is different than the original plan of starting near 86th Street. Distribution gas main replacement will continue to head south on Penn Avenue over the next 1-2 months. Lane closures will be utilized on Penn Avenue as work progresses and updates will be given of any side street closures that will be needed as work progresses south.
April 8, 2021
The distribution gas main work for this project is scheduled to start the week of April 12. This work will start at 86th Street on Penn Avenue and work to the north on Penn Avenue toward I-494. Traffic will be shifted to the west side of the road, with one lane in both directions as work progresses north on Penn Avenue.
February 26, 2021
A virtual informational meeting was held by CenterPoint Energy on Tuesday, February 23 at 6pm to review the 2021 CenterPoint Energy Penn Avenue Beltline Project. There were four property owners in total that attended the meeting. City of Bloomington and Hennepin County staff were also present at the meeting This project will include the replacement of an existing 24” transmission gas main along Penn Avenue from just north of 98th Street up to I-494, with other smaller distribution gas main work.
The distribution gas main work is anticipated to begin in April 2021, with the larger transmission gas main work starting in early June 2021. The slides from the informational meeting presentation are available on CenterPoint Energy’s construction site at CenterPointEnergy.com/Construction select, “Minnesota”, then click on “Project Sites” and select “Bloomington” to find the Penn Avenue Beltline Project. More information regarding the construction schedule will be given as the construction season nears.
February 11, 2021
CenterPoint Energy will be back in Bloomington this year to continue work on their multi-year Beltline project. This multi-year project began in 2013 and has been replacing and rehabilitating many miles of transmission gas lines throughout the metro area. The location within Bloomington in 2021 includes Penn Avenue from just north of 98th Street up to I-494. This project will include the replacement of an existing 24” transmission gas main along with other smaller distribution gas main work and is anticipated to begin in April of 2021.
CenterPoint Energy will be hosting a virtual informational meeting on Tuesday, February 23 starting at 6:00pm, which will include a short presentation, followed by a Q&A session with staff. CenterPoint Energy sent notices for the informational meeting earlier this week to adjacent property owners. More information can be found on CenterPoint Energy’s construction site at CenterPointEnergy.com/Construction select, “Minnesota”, then click on “Project Sites” and select “Bloomington” to find the Penn Avenue Beltline Project. More information regarding the construction schedule will be given as the construction season nears.
Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES), operator of the metro-area wastewater collection treatment system, is replacing an aged and undersized lift station with a new lift station to accommodate future flows from the cities of Bloomington and Edina.
Construction is anticipated to occur in several stages beginning in June 2019 through July 2021.
Stage 1: Construct new Lift Station L55A at the intersection of 82nd Street West and American Boulevard West
Stage 2: Construct water and wastewater forcemains under 82nd Street West
Stages 3, 4, and 5: Construct gravity sewer under American Boulevard West
Stage 6: Remove existing Lift Station L55, commission new Lift Station L55A and restore all surface improvements
The work will require road and lane closures, and other typical construction impacts such as noise, dust, vibrations, and 24-hour pumps for the aboveground temporary wastewater conveyance lines.
Project Updates
A site overview and project area map is available on the Metro Council project website.
Stay Informed
For more information, to sign up for project email or text updates or to view past and present updates, visit the project website the signup for updates is on this page. Questions and comments can be directed to the project team at 952-695-8339 or info@BloomingtonLiftStationL55A.com.
Please leave a voice message, and the team will contact you promptly.
We apologize for the inconvenience and will do our best to minimize negative impacts during construction. We appreciate your patience as we complete this important sewer work in your area.
Water resources projects
The 2021 Storm Sewer Maintenance Project is on-going at various small sites throughout the city. The majority of the work will cause minimal disruption to the general public. Project personnel will communicate directly with the few residents that we expect will be inconveniences.
Pedestrian/bicycle improvement projects
Scope
This project includes the reconstruction of existing, substandard trails along the west side of France Avenue between W Old Shakopee Road (CSAH 1) and W 84th Street in Bloomington. The existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities on the west side of France Avenue are a patchwork of sidewalks, narrow trails, and paved shoulders. The varied conditions require weaving, have inconsistent protection, and little separation between trail users and vehicular traffic.
Approximately three miles of trail along the corridor will be constructed to meet today’s standards for multiuse trails including additional width, improved intersection crossings, along with an improved crossing over Nine Mile Creek. Reconstruction of the proposed trail segment will augment multimodal travel in Bloomington by providing increased safety and comfort to users seeking recreation or access to a variety of destinations, including improved connections to existing bike/pedestrian facilities on W Old Shakopee Road, W 90th Street and W 84th Street.
This Project will be designed and constructed in cooperation between both Hennepin County and the City of Bloomington.
Funding
The City of Bloomington applied for and received a federal grant through the Metropolitan Council’s regional solicitation process, which will fund a portion of the project cost. The remainder of the cost will be funded by City of Bloomington funds.
Schedule
The design for the project is complete and construction is anticipated to begin in late Spring – early Summer 2019. Construction is anticipated to complete in the Spring of 2020.
Updates
April 22, 2021
Xcel Energy has been slightly delayed, but is still planning to begin moving the temporarily located power poles back to their permanent location on the west side of France Avenue adjacent to the new boardwalk. This work is anticipated to begin in late April-early May and will require lane closures on France Avenue as the work is completed.
March 26, 2021
Prior to construction of the boardwalk as part of the 2019-201 France Avenue Trail project, power poles were temporarily relocated to the east side of France Avenue between 94th Street and 90th Street. Xcel Energy is planning to begin moving those power poles back to the west side of France Avenue in late March-early April. This work will require lane closures on France Avenue as the work is completed.
