Knowledge Base

Major Construction Milestones Begin on Link

July 29, 2025 – ROCHESTER, MINN – Construction continues to accelerate along the Link Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route, with major infrastructure improvements beginning at both ends of the corridor. Upcoming work includes roadway closures, traffic shifts and utility upgrades that mark critical steps toward delivering Rochester’s first-ever BRT system—an investment in faster, fare-free and more sustainable public transit.

East Terminus Work Has Begun

Construction near the East Terminus, which will be built on 6th Street SE near the river, has begun and will continue into 2026, starting with utility work led by Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) and progressing to full roadway reconstruction.

• July 28 – mid-September: Work will occur on the east side of the 3rd Avenue SE and 6th Street SE intersection. One lane of traffic in each direction will be maintained, shifted west.
• August 18: Full closure of 6th Street SE west of 3rd Avenue SE. Local access will be maintained for residents. Full closure will reopen in early 2026.
• Mid-September – into 2026: Construction shifts to the west side of the 3rd Avenue SE and 6th Street SE intersection. Traffic will remain reduced to one lane in each direction, with lanes shifted east.

2nd Street SW Closure Begins August 11

Simultaneously, the next major construction phase begins on the west end of the Link corridor. Pedestrian routes and crossings along 2nd Street SW will remain open, though the location of crosswalks will shift to accommodate short-term sidewalk closures on the north side of the street. Detour signage will be in place to guide pedestrians safely around any temporary closures.

• July 15 – August 10: One-lane traffic in each direction continues between 11th and 13th Avenues SW.
• August 11: Full closure between 11th Avenue SW and 13th Avenue SW until end of December. 11th Avenue SW to 12th Avenue will reopen when complete in late fall.
• Mid-September: Closure expands west to 14th Avenue SW, intersection will remain open for north/south traffic.

Stay informed with construction updates and sign up for the weekly newsletter at  www.rochestermn.gov/link.

What to Expect During Construction

Clear signage, pedestrian access and well-marked detour routes will be in place throughout construction. Access to local properties and accommodations for emergency services will be maintained. Construction along the Link corridor is being closely coordinated with other downtown projects to minimize disruption and maximize long-term value.

For downtown travel resources, visit  www.downtownrochesterconstruction.org

The Link project is a partnership between the City of Rochester and Destination Medical Center (DMC).