2nd Street SW Reopens for the Winter
2nd Street SW Reopens for the Winter
November 21 - Rochester, MN – The City of Rochester is pleased to announce the reopening of 2nd Street SW between 11th and 13th Avenues SW on Monday, November 24, following a productive construction season that delivered significant progress on the Link Bus Rapid Transit project.
This reopening marks a milestone in the City’s efforts to modernize its transportation infrastructure and enhance mobility for residents, businesses and visitors. The improvements completed this year lay the groundwork for a more connected, efficient and sustainable transit corridor.
As part of the reopening, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction, with all lanes shifted to the south side of the street. Motorists are encouraged to use caution and follow posted signage while traveling through the area. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the corridor. Please follow posted signs and use marked crosswalks and pathways, as active work areas will shift during the winter construction season.
“The reopening of this segment of 2nd Street SW offers added convenience for those traveling to and through the area throughout the coming months,” said Steve Sampson Brown, Director of Construction. “We appreciate the community’s patience throughout the construction season. Having this corridor available ahead of the holiday season helps ensure continued access to Rochester’s vibrant shopping, dining and community events throughout the winter months.”
Major underground and roadway work in this area has been completed, allowing a safe reopening while construction continues at this site for the vertical circulators and elsewhere along the Link corridor. 2nd Street SW may experience periodic closures or lane reductions in 2026 as crews construct the underground pedestrian tunnel and complete the permanent concrete roadway pavement.
Stay informed with Link construction updates and sign up for the weekly newsletter at rochestermn.gov/link.
For downtown travel resources, including maps for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers, visit downtownrochesterconstruction.org