Its not just you. Heres why Twin Cities road work is more intense this summer.

This summer, the Twin Cities are witnessing a significant increase in road construction driven by federal and state funding initiatives. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, approved in 2021, allocated $1 trillion for infrastructure improvements nationwide, while Minnesota's recent legislation is set to inject an additional $5. 2 billion into the state's highway system over the next 20 years. Currently, around 180 road projects are active, comparable to previous years, but state officials report heightened intensity in this year’s construction efforts. MnDOT is working to minimize traveler inconvenience, especially with major events like the State Fair and the Minnesota Vikings' preseason approaching.

Sen. Scott Dibble emphasizes the necessity of this spending, asserting it is vital for maintaining and enhancing transportation systems that support commerce and daily life. Despite the current funding influx, MnDOT estimates it still faces a significant funding gap for long-term infrastructure needs. Dibble argues that the department's projected shortfall may be exaggerated and suggests a reevaluation of expansion plans. As the federal funding stream could diminish after 2026, the continued investment from the state will be crucial for future infrastructure initiatives.