Portion of Vacated 3rd Avenue SW Downtown to Close on October 7

Since June 2025, the vacated portion of 3rd Avenue SW between 2nd Street SW and West Center Street has been closed to through traffic, with access maintained for Mayo Clinic patients using the Gonda Building’s west entrance. At 7 p.m. on October 7, the vacated street will close permanently to all traffic as construction in the area advances.

This change supports ongoing development in the area and follows an application and approval by the Rochester City Council in November 2024. 

This closure will further change traffic patterns in this area of downtown, including northbound travel. As the community adjusts to the new configuration, everyone traveling through the area, whether driving, walking, biking or using transit, is encouraged to allow additional time and pay close attention to posted signs, crossings and traffic controls. 

“Safety for everyone traveling through downtown is a top priority as our community adjusts to these changing travel patterns,” said Jon Turk, Captain with the Rochester Police Department. “We will continue to monitor and make adjustments where needed and use tools such as digital message boards, signage and other traffic controls to help people safely navigate downtown.” 

To continue accessing downtown businesses, services, destinations and experiences throughout construction, community members are encouraged to check current routes at rochesterdowntownconstruction.org. Regular travel patterns may have changed and checking a route in advance can help travelers identify the best way to reach their destination. 

Drivers should anticipate different turning and access patterns, while people walking, and biking should follow designated routes and crossings. Taking extra time, reducing distractions and following posted traffic controls will help support the safety of everyone moving through the area. 

Mayo Clinic patients and visitors are encouraged to refer to pre-appointment communications, including their Patient Appointment Guide, and should visit mayoclinic.org/rochester-construction ahead of each visit to review recommended arrival options and routes, including self-parking, drop-off locations and valet services.