Rochester residents will see a major change to the city’s “beltline” this week. Beginning at 5 a.m. on Monday, November 9, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) will close both directions of Highway 14 between South Broadway Avenue and 3rd Avenue SE. The closure is required to allow the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad to replace the east‑side railroad crossing that runs just beyond South Broadway.

Detour routes for motorists

Drivers traveling east‑west on Hwy 14 are instructed to follow a detour that routes traffic south on South Broadway Avenue, then east on 3rd Avenue SE, and finally westward on 16th Street SE. The detour will remain in effect for five days, with the road expected to reopen on Friday, November 13, weather permitting.

Why the project is happening now

MnDOT says the timing of the closure is intentional. By completing the railroad‑crossing repair this month, the agency avoids a scheduling conflict with a larger reconstruction project slated for next year at the Hwy 14 and South Broadway intersection. That future project will redesign the intersection, reducing median widths and reconfiguring on‑ramps to improve right‑turn movements onto Hwy 14 and South Broadway.

Planned improvements to the intersection

The upcoming redesign also calls for two dedicated left‑turn lanes—one for westbound traffic and one for eastbound traffic—so drivers seeking South Broadway will have clearer, safer turning options. While those changes are not part of the current closure, the short‑term detour helps keep the corridor functional as the long‑term improvements are planned.

What residents should know

• Closure hours: 5 a.m. Monday, Nov 9 – Friday, Nov 13 (subject to weather)
• Detour path: South Broadway → 3rd Ave SE → 16th St SE
• Project sponsor: Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad, overseen by MnDOT
• Future work: Redesign of the Hwy 14/South Broadway intersection slated for 2027

Motorists are encouraged to allow extra travel time and follow posted signage. Local businesses along the detour route have been notified and are preparing for the temporary shift in traffic patterns. For real‑time updates, residents can check MnDOT’s website or follow the agency’s social‑media channels.

Community impact

Although any roadwork can be inconvenient, the short‑term closure is expected to reduce longer‑term congestion and improve safety at a busy junction that serves commuters, school buses, and freight traffic alike. By addressing the railroad crossing now, the city avoids a more disruptive shutdown later when the full intersection overhaul begins.

Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.