Crews to Expand Eastbound in 2026

Travelers should plan for roadwork and delays, as the final year of the I-94 Gap project is underway. 

Westbound was expanded to three lanes in 2025. This year, MnDOT will expand eastbound I-94 to three lanes from west of Hwy 25 in Monticello to Co. Rd. 19 in Albertville. 

Crews will reconstruct the road surface, add a new third lane, replace or repair underground drainage structures, and install the second noise wall along I-94 Monticello. 

Here's what to expect through the work zone 

Prep work begins April 7: Expect periodic single-lane closures on both directions of I-94 as crews set up the work zone and concrete barrier. Lane closures will occur at off-peak hours, mainly overnight between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. 
-Watch for workers and flashing equipment, especially at night when sight distances lessen. 

Expand lanes April 21 to late October: I-94 will remain open to two lanes each way on the adjacent new westbound side as crews reconstruct the eastbound side between Albertville and Monticello 
-Pay attention and be prepared for changes - lane shifts, no shoulders, concrete barriers between eastbound and westbound traffic, real-time travel displays ahead of the work zone, multiple crews at work, changes to local access and reduced speeds
-Consider alternate routes or travel or travel at off-peak hours to avoid delays 
-If a crash occurs and I-94 closes, use nearest exit and follow alternate route signs 
-Know before you go. For current road impacts on I-94, visit 511mn.org