MANKATO – The third stage of the construction on the Highway 14 Minnesota River Bridge project in Mankato is expected to begin Monday, June 10, weather permitting, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Traffic will switch to be in a head-to-head configuration in the westbound lanes from east of Lookout Drive to 3rd Avenue. The Highway 169 ramps to eastbound Highway 14 and the entrance ramp at Lookout Drive to eastbound Highway 14 will be closed. The eastbound entrance ramp at Lor Ray Drive will be open for access to Highway 169 only. The speed limit in the work zone will remain reduced to 55 MPH. The third stage of construction is anticipated for about three weeks.

After the completion of Stage 3, construction will move to the final stage with shoulder and lane closures for approximately two weeks. The project is expected to be complete in mid-July, weather permitting.

Motorists are advised that traffic delays and congestion are expected, especially during peak travel times. Drivers are encouraged to be patient and pay attention traveling through the work zone. Motorists should find alternative routes, change travel times to avoid peak traffic periods, or plan for extra travel time. With the ramp closures at Highway 14/169, motorists may also consider using Highway 22 from Mankato to St. Peter as an alternate route.

Work on the Highway 14 Minnesota River bridge is a concrete mill and overlay preventative maintenance project to extend the life of the bridge.