MnDOT plans full closure of Highway 77 Bridges amidst multiple regional projects

Richfield City Council is moving forward with significant infrastructure improvements as part of the I-494 Phase 2 project, which includes the full closure of the Highway 77 bridges to traffic. This decision, made during the recent work session on May 27, 2025, aims to streamline construction and minimize disruption for commuters.

The closure of the Highway 77 bridges is expected to facilitate necessary upgrades while keeping the main highway open. City officials are utilizing advanced data from cell phones to analyze traffic patterns and determine how to best manage the flow of vehicles during the construction period. This data-driven approach aims to identify alternate routes and mitigate congestion on local roads.

In addition to the Highway 77 project, the council discussed the importance of coordinating multiple upcoming infrastructure projects in the Southwest Metro Area. With several major roadworks planned over the next five years, including pavement preservation on Highway 62 and improvements on Highway 169, officials are focused on staggering these projects. This strategy is designed to reduce the overall impact on commuters by ensuring that alternate routes remain available.

The council is also considering a more aggressive construction timeline, potentially reducing the project duration to just one season instead of two. This would allow for quicker access to the bridges and lessen the inconvenience for drivers. The discussions highlighted the need for careful planning to balance construction needs with the daily travel demands of the community.

As the city prepares for these significant changes, officials are committed to keeping residents informed and engaged throughout the process. The outcomes of these projects are expected to enhance traffic flow and improve overall infrastructure in Richfield, paving the way for a more efficient transportation network in the years to come.