The University of Minnesota outlined upcoming Washington Avenue Bridge closures Monday for when construction on the Central Corridor light-rail line begins at the end of February.
Washington Avenue Southeast will be limited to one lane of traffic in both directions during construction. The inside lanes of the Washington Avenue Bridge will be converted into the light-rail line, making a single lane for both directions the new norm.
Bus traffic will be affected slightly on the West Bank. The UniversityâÄôs Campus Connector route will stop in front of Willey Hall instead of its normal Blegen Hall stop. The Washington Avenue Bridge Circulator will continue to stop at Willey, and Metro Transit buses will continue to stop on both sides of the street.
Pedestrian and bike traffic will also be altered as portions of the bridge will close depending on construction.
Following spring semester, an entire portion of Washington Avenue between Pleasant and Oak streets southeast will be closed to vehicle traffic. There will be detour routes.
In all cases, delays can be expected, and travelers are encouraged to plan accordingly.
University Services Vice President Kathleen OâÄôBrien said she expects the project to last about two years.
âÄúWe really need to ask University community members to be patient, prepared and flexible,âÄù she said.
University Services will continue to provide updated information as construction develops.
The Central Corridor light-rail line will connect the downtowns of Minneapolis and St. Paul, travelling along Washington and University avenues.