I-94 Gap Project Construction to Resume April 7

Travelers should expect roadwork and delays as the final year of the interstate expansion project begins.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:53pm

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A highly stylized, geometric illustration depicting the sweeping curves and towering scale of a major highway construction project, rendered in the bold, streamlined Art Deco style of A.M. Cassandre.As the final phase of the I-94 Gap project resumes, the grand scale and bold vision of this critical infrastructure upgrade comes into focus.Monticello Today

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that the final phase of the Interstate 94 Gap project will resume on April 7 between the cities of Albertville and Monticello. The eastbound lanes of I-94 will be expanded to three lanes, with crews working to reconstruct the road surface, add a new third lane, repair drainage structures, and install a second noise wall.

Why it matters

The I-94 Gap project is a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at reducing congestion and improving safety along a heavily traveled stretch of interstate in central Minnesota. The resumption of construction will cause disruptions for travelers, but the end result will be a more efficient and modern highway system.

The details

Prep work will begin on April 7, with periodic single-lane closures in both directions, mainly overnight between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. From April 21 to late October, I-94 will remain open to two lanes in each direction on the adjacent new westbound side as crews reconstruct the eastbound side. Drivers are advised to pay close attention to signage, be prepared for lane shifts, and expect reduced speeds through the work zone.

  • Prep work will begin on April 7, 2026.
  • Lane expansions will occur from April 21 to late October 2026.
  • All six lanes of I-94 are expected to open in late October 2026.

The players

Minnesota Department of Transportation

The state agency responsible for overseeing the I-94 Gap project and providing updates to the public.

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What they’re saying

“'Pay attention and be prepared for changes—lane shifts, no shoulders, concrete barriers between eastbound and westbound traffic, real-time travel displays ahead of the work zone, multiple crews at work, changes to local access and reduced speeds.'”

— MnDOT

What’s next

Travelers should check MnDOT's website and social media channels for the latest updates on lane closures and traffic conditions as the I-94 Gap project progresses.

The takeaway

The resumption of construction on the I-94 Gap project is a necessary step in improving a critical transportation corridor in central Minnesota, but it will require patience and vigilance from drivers as they navigate the work zone over the next several months.