Minnesota Department of Transportation

511 Travel Info

I-94 — Sauk Centre to Melrose

Sauk River bridges, Stearns County

Today on I-94, check 511mn.org

All lanes open

First year of construction complete

  • In spring 2027, crews will resume work and replace the westbound bridges. Both directions of I-94 will be one lane each way, 24-7, on the eastbound side of I-94.
  • Thanks for your patience as we improved the two eastbound bridge decks in 2026!

About this project

Update, construct bridges

MnDOT will improve four bridges on Interstate 94 over the Sauk River between Sauk Centre and Melrose in Stearns County. The two-year project begins in 2026 with repairs to the eastbound bridges, followed by full reconstruction of the westbound bridges in 2027.

Location of Sauk River bridges between Sauk Centre and Melrose
I-94 project location map (PNG)

Summary of work

Work will take place on I-94 bridges east of Hwy 71 in Sauk Centre and east of Hwy 4 near Melrose.

2026 – eastbound bridges - COMPLETE

  • Update and resurface the bridge decks with a new concrete wearing course — the top layer of pavement designed to withstand traffic and weather, providing a smooth and durable driving surface.
  • Repairs will also include new approach panels, concrete joints, catch basins and guardrail.

2027 – westbound bridges

  • Remove and reconstruct the bridges.
  • Work will include new approach panels, catch basins and guardrail.

Future impacts

I-94 between Sauk Centre and Melrose

  • One bridge will be closed at a time; traffic shifted to the adjacent side
  • Expect:
    • Single-lane traffic
    • No shoulders
    • Lane shifts
    • Reduced speeds
  • Plan ahead for slowdowns or sudden stops, especially during peak travel times
    • Dynamic display signs will be used and show expected delay times prior to entering the work zone
  • For current conditions on I-94, visit: www.511mn.org

Schedule at a glance

All dates are tentative and subject to change.

Timeframe

Work

Impacts
April 13 to late May 2026

Prepare work zone

Periodic lane/shoulder closures each week from Monday to 2 p.m. Friday
Late May to late October 2026
  • Update eastbound bridge (east of Hwy 71 in Sauk Centre)
  • Update eastbound bridge (east of Hwy 4 near Melrose)

Bridges closed. One lane each direction, 24/7, on westbound side

Spring-fall 2027
  • Construct new westbound bridge (east of Hwy 71 in Sauk Centre)
  • Construct new westbound bridge (east of Hwy 4 near Melrose)
 Bridges closed. One lane each direction, 24-7, on eastbound side
Fall 2027 Wrap up work zone Periodic lane/shoulder closures during off-peak hours

Sauk River State Water Trail

The Sauk River State Water Trail will be closed at each bridge. Please plan your portage route.

When crews complete the bridge west of Melrose in 2027, river paddlers will see new Troll wayfinding icons marking the bridge piers.

Notes

  • Off-road work may continue year-round
  • Crews will clear areas and install bridge netting before nesting season in spring 2026
  • All lanes will reopen during the 2026-2027 winter season
  • Crews will remove the old westbound bridges in spring 2027
  • Contractor may finish turf and final tasks in spring 2028