Motorists in Duluth will need to chart a new course come Monday, as the city has announced a temporary partial closure of the intersection at Third Street and Sixth Avenue East. The shutdown is due to construction work that's kicking off at the start of the week. For those planning to make their way through this junction, expect some detours and perhaps a longer commute.

The closure, starting September 16, will specifically disrupt the southbound lanes of Sixth Avenue East, from Fourth Street down to Second Street, and a chunk of Third Street. The disruption is set to last approximately one week, with the caveat that it might stretch further, depending on how the construction proceeds. Anyone cruising down Third Street should plan to soon navigate its confines with just one lane open to traffic.

If you're looking to avoid the headache that often comes with construction zones, the city urges drivers to opt for different travel routes. According to the official announcement, Lake Avenue or Second Street might just save you some time, especially if you're trying to reach the hospital district from the west. While northbound lanes on Sixth Avenue East will still be in operation, be mindful that another construction project might tighten the squeeze on accessible lanes.

It's no small inconvenience, but the city is counting on drivers' patience to see the closure period through. With multiple construction efforts in progress, Duluth's usual thoroughfares are fast becoming obstacle courses, so be ready to quickly familiarize yourself with a Plan B (or C) commute.