Major Reopenings Ahead with 2nd Street Expected to Reconnect from West Circle Drive to Downtown in December

November 5, 2026, Rochester, MN – Closed sections of 2nd Street SW are expected to reopen to vehicle traffic in the coming weeks, improving travel options for residents and visitors while enhancing access to businesses along the corridor. https://linkrapidtransit-rpu.hub.arcgis.com/

Following months of construction and changing traffic patterns, the City of Rochester is looking ahead to two important milestones that will reconnect more of the corridor.

Upcoming road reopenings include:

• Week of November 23:
• 2nd Street SW on the Highway 52 bridge will return to two lanes in each direction
• 2nd Street SW between 12th Avenue SW and 13 Avenue SW will open to one lane in each direction, resulting in one lane of eastbound and westbound traffic being open on 2nd Street SW from West Circle Drive to 7th Avenue SW.
• Week of December 6:
• 2nd Street between 4th Avenue SW and 6th Avenue SW will open to one lane in each direction, allowing for continuous travel along the corridor from West Circle Drive to 3rd Avenue SE.

These anticipated reopenings mark meaningful progress as the Link Bus Rapid Transit project progresses and access improves along the 2.8-mile corridor. While some construction and temporary traffic impacts will continue, maintaining one open lane of traffic in each direction throughout the corridor over the winter will improve access to businesses and destinations along 2nd Street for residents and visitors. Pedestrian access will largely open along 2nd Street. Small pedestrian detours will remain between 3rd Avenue SW and Broadway, throughout the winter.

"With approximately 67% of Link construction complete, we are reaching an exciting point in this project," shared Assistant City Administrator Ryan Yetzer. "We know the disruptions have been significant, and we greatly appreciate the patience and support of our businesses, residents and visitors. With the holiday season approaching and access improving, it's a great time to reconnect with favorite places along 2nd Street, discover new ones and support the businesses."

While these reopenings mark important progress, crews will continue work to complete remaining improvements and prepare for the anticipated August 2027 launch of Link.

For the latest construction information, road closures and business access updates, visit www.downtownrochesterconstruction.org.