Get ready for a slower commute if you travel Highway 10 through Anoka. Starting this spring, a two year construction project will reduce traffic to one lane in each direction.
On average, Highway 10 in Anoka carries over 60,000 vehicles per day. Peak westbound traffic in the evening averages 35 miles an hour, and it's about to get worse. Starting in April, work will take place at multiple locations and intersections along the two and a half mile stretch of Highway 10 between Thurston Avenue and 7th Avenue. It will take two complete construction seasons to finish the project.
"It will go down to one lane in each direction,” said MnDOT spokesperson Gail Vold Greco. “There will definitely be slower traffic through Anoka so if you have another option, you're going to probably want to explore it in the months ahead."
Trees and brush along the project area have been marked for removal. This week, MnDOT began taking out vegetation that would interfere with construction.
Beginning in July, vehicles taller than 10 feet will not be able to cross under Highway 10 on Thurston Avenue and Fairoak Avenue. The low clearance will allow for the construction of overpasses to be built at these critical intersections.
Several MnDOT and Anoka city officials were on hand to help answer questions about the project. Knowing the daily construction schedule will be important.
"We really encourage folks to sign up for the mailing list," Vold Greco said.
In the end, the rebuilt road with grade separations at Thurston Avenue and Fairoak Avenue will decrease congestion, improve traffic flow and increase safety. For more information and updates, check out MnDOT's website. You can also sign up for email updates on the project.