Rochester, MN – The final phase of a three‑year, $27 million improvement project at the I‑90/Hwy 52 interchange is now underway. MnDOT announced that the fly‑over ramp linking southbound Hwy 52 to eastbound I‑90 is complete, and the newly paved northbound lanes through the interchange have reopened for traffic.
Reopened Ramps and New Traffic Patterns
Effective Tuesday, northbound Hwy 52 drivers can again use the eastbound I‑90 on‑ramp, and eastbound I‑90 motorists have restored access to northbound Hwy 52. The detour that remains in place for eastbound I‑90 drivers heading south on Hwy 52 continues to route traffic via northbound Hwy 52, then out at the Marion Rd. interchange.
Motorists traveling south on Hwy 52 from westbound I‑90 are still being directed to County Rd 7 south of Eyota. Likewise, drivers heading west on I‑90 from southbound Hwy 52 are routed to the interstate via southbound Hwy 63.
Upcoming Two‑Day Closure
Starting at 6 a.m. on September 22, MnDOT will close Hwy 52 in both directions at the interchange. The closure is needed to complete paving work on Hwy 52 and to finish the westbound I‑90 overpass. During the closure, northbound Hwy 52 traffic will be detoured to I‑90 via County Rd 7 and will re‑enter the highway at Exit 217. Southbound Hwy 52 drivers will be routed to westbound I‑90 via southbound Hwy 63, then exit at the Eyota interchange and follow County Rd 7 back to Hwy 52.
I‑90 motorists seeking southbound Hwy 52 will also use the Eyota exit and travel south on County Rd 7 to reconnect with the highway. MnDOT expects the closure to end by 9 p.m. on Thursday, September 24, when the interchange should be fully reopened.
What Drivers Should Expect
Motorists are urged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and follow posted signage. The detour routes use existing county roads that are familiar to local drivers, and MnDOT will staff the area with flaggers and signage to ensure a smooth flow of traffic.
Local businesses and commuters have expressed relief that the most critical ramp work is finished, noting that the new fly‑over will improve safety and reduce congestion during peak travel times. The upcoming closure, while temporary, is seen as a necessary step to complete the larger project that will benefit the region for years to come.
Project Background
The interchange upgrade is part of a broader effort to modernize Minnesota’s transportation network, supporting economic growth and ensuring reliable travel for families and freight operators alike. By improving connections between Hwy 52 and I‑90, the state aims to reduce travel times, enhance safety, and accommodate future traffic volumes.
MnDOT will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates through its website and local news outlets. Drivers can also call the MnDOT hotline for real‑time information on lane closures and detour routes.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
