Caution: Shoulder Closures on I-94 Between Clearwater and Monticello

(KNSI) – Drivers on Interstate 94 will need to be cautious while road crews close the shoulders to start prepping for road construction.

Starting Monday, March 15, the Minnesota Department of Transportation will remove brush and trees along both sides of I-94 between Monticello and Clearwater.

The work will require shoulder closures along the 15-mile stretch of I-94.

Drivers are asked to watch for crews working in the area, slow down, and obey traffic laws.

The work is to get ready for pond construction and road work that will begin later this spring.

The timing of the work is critical.

Trees in the area are home to the northern long-eared bat habitat, listed as a threatened species in Minnesota.

To avoid the bat’s breeding season, tree removal should be done between November 1st and March 31st.

The project is part of a 39-mile stretch of I-94 between Maple Grove and Clearwater, including more travel lanes, bridge replacements, new bridges, improved drainage, and the resurfacing of deteriorating pavement.

The improvements will reduce congestion, improve safety, improve freight movement, enhance economic vitality and provide a smoother ride for users of I-94.

The project began in 2019 and is expected to be complete this year.

For more information, visit the I-94 Maple Grove to Clearwater project webpage.

If you have any questions about the project, please contact the project team at 651-456-8205 or info@i94-mg-clearwater.com.

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