Lake Street is getting a facelift, but it's going to cause some headaches before the beauty shines through. CenterPoint Energy's major gas infrastructure replacement trek marches on, with the Michels Corporation, an authorized contractor, holding the reins. Traffic around Lake Street W. is going to be dicey for the next couple of weeks, with some bright spots on the horizon. Drivers navigating between James Avenue S. and Dupont Avenue S. can expect the current constrictions to ease by May 31st, but the dance isn't over yet. Thanks to Metro Transit’s B-Line Project, lane closures aren't quite saying their goodbyes.
Looking down the road, James Avenue S. should shake free of its construction shackles by June 1st. But the same promise doesn't smile upon Hennepin and Fremont Avenues just north of Lake, where early June is slated to pinch a lane while grudgingly allowing the rhythm of two-way traffic. Emerson Avenue S. can breathe a sigh of relief come May 31st. However, Dupont Avenue S. will play host to extended closures lasting from June 3 to June 14, according to an update from CenterPoint.
The east end of Lake Street isn't being left out of this infrastructure tango. The stretch between Colfax Avenue S. and Stevens Avenue S. is on the CenterPoint docket until mid-June. They'll be hoisting meters from the insides of the walls to the great outdoors, besides swapping out some aging service lines. Motorists should be ready for the south side shut down to give way to the north starting June 7th, squishing traffic into accommodative single lanes in each direction until the job hits its mid-month crescendo.
But it's not all traffic signs and detours; local businesses are keeping their doors open. It may be a path less paved with sidewalk panels up for grabs and gravel placeholders, but pedestrians aiming for a shop or bite won’t have to vault over trenches. CenterPoint is making sure access isn't a question, even as they lay the groundwork for Minneapolis's fueled future.
For those jonesing for more information, or itching to drop a line about the gridlock, CenterHispoint Energy has the answers. A digital pit stop at their website promises updates on crew progress. Better yet, give their Communication Specialist a shout-out at 612-321-5546 or email at [email protected] to air out any grievances, or concerns, or maybe just to give a friendly Minnesota 'thanks' for the hard work – the company appears to appreciate a dash of patience as they connect the gas-powered dots.
