Hwy 53 Eveleth construction begins on April 17

April 10, 2025

The Minnesota Department of Transportation will be starting traffic impacts for Highway 53 in Eveleth as construction starts on April 17. Northbound and southbound Hwy 53 traffic will be sent down the ramps to Hwy 37 to temporary stop lights and then back up the ramps to continue on Hwy 53. This traffic configuration will be in place through the end of May.

The Hwy 53 bridges over Hwy 37 will be demolished between April 18 and 21, and Hwy 37 will be closed at Hwy 53 during that time. A detour will be put in place taking traffic on Hwy 37 through Gilbert to Hwy 135 to Hwy 53.

The bridges and other infrastructure will be replaced. and the project is expected to be completed

For maps and general project information, please visit the website here: https://www.dot.state.mn.us/d1/projects/hwy53-eveleth/index.html.

Summary of work

• Remove and replace bridges at the interchange of Hwy 53 and Hwy 37
• Safety improvements at intersections on Highway 53
  • Bourgin Road – geometric improvements
  • Progress Parkway – roundabout
  • Hat Trick Avenue – geometric improvements
• Pavement resurfacing from Hwy 37 to Vermillion Drive
• Improvements to sidewalks, trails, and intersection lighting

Work Zone Safety Tips:

• Obey posted speed limits. The fine for speeding in a work zone is $300.
• Drive undistracted.Avoid using cell phones, mobile devices, adjusting the radio – even eating –while in work zones.
• Move over.Give workers room to safely complete their work.
• Know before you go.Get real-time information about traffic and road conditions at 511mn.org or get the free 511mn smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.
• Be patient.Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
• Do the zipper merge.
• Avoid making unnecessary lane changes.

Never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones.