Minneapolis drivers brace for traffic snarls as major gas main replacement kicks off on Lake Street W. Starting April 15, CenterPoint Energy's authorized contractor Michels Corporation is set to rip up and replace the natural gas main stretching from Dupont Avenue S. all the way west to Emerson Avenue S. The work, expected to last around two weeks, aims to update the aging infrastructure as part of the City of Minneapolis's Lake Street Project, but it won't happen without causing its fair share of disruptions.

Commuters should prepare to alter their routes and parking habits as the south side of Dupont Avenue S. at Lake Street W. will see parking restrictions extend to a 200-foot stretch, according to CenterPoint Energy - Minnesota. Michels will have to temporarily commandeer the south two lanes, along with the parking and southbound turn lane of Lake Street W., from Dupont to Emerson Avenues S., to slowly and surely execute the needed upgrades.

The traffic is likely to be heavier given the ongoing construction by Metro Transit’s B-Line Project, though Michels plans to work within the current setup procured by Thomas & Sons, the project's contractor. This coordination could be key to easing at least some commuter headaches during the peak hours of the day.

Following the main replacement, another crew from Michels Corporation will swoop in to connect the dots, ensuring that services are tied over to local residences and businesses without a hitch. They promise to keep those affected in the loop, confirming "they will be coordinating with these residences and businesses before any gas interruptions," as noted in a bulletin posted on CenterPoint Energy's website.

 Communication Specialist Hannah Gullickson is available at 612-321-5546 or via email at [email protected] for queries. Updates on the crew's progress will be available on CenterPoint Energy's website.