As crews continue to work on the $435 million Twin Ports interchange project, there is a new round of closures on the way that will impact travel in the Northland, especially for those who use the Blatnik Bridge between Duluth and Superior.

Reconstructing the I-35/I-535/Hwy 53 interchange requires a year-round effort and while the new closures are inconvenient for motorists, the good news is that most impactful is a real sign that progress is being made.

Also, as has been the case with previous closures, these are not long-term situations to deal with.

New I-35 Single Lane Closures

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that I-35 single-lane closures will occur in both directions between 27th Avenue West and Garfield Avenue on Wednesday, August 14, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

I-535 Blatnik Bridge Closure

The I-535 Blatnik Bridge will be completely closed from 6:00 a.m. Thursday, August 15, through 6:00 a.m. Friday, August 16. MnDOT says this closure is necessary to complete final bypass connections providing direct access to/from northbound and southbound I-35.

Motorists are urged to drive without distractions, be patient, and be mindful of work crews on the road.

The Twin Ports Interchange Project looks to improve safety by:

Construction is expected to be completed around the summer of 2026 when landscaping and clean-up are expected to begin.

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The video below shows what the freeway will look like when completed from a motorist's view heading north on I-35 through the Twin Ports Interchange area, then heading to southbound I-35 from I-535, or the Blatnik Bridge, through the Twin Ports Interchange area.