I-494 reduced between Bloomington and Eagan until late October

A busy stretch of Interstate-494 will be reduced to two lanes in both directions for around six months starting this week.

The impacted area spans from 24th Avenue in Bloomington to Pilot Knob Road in Eagan/Mendota Heights.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation said it'll reduce westbound lanes to two lanes in the construction zone starting at 5 a.m. Thursday, May 2. The eastbound lanes were reduced in late April.

According to MnDOT, the 43-year-old I-494 bridge over the Minnesota River is in need of major repairs.

"Once construction is completed, travelers using the bridge will enjoy a smoother safer road," the agency shared. "The project will also extend the life of the bridge and improve drainage."

The total cost of the multi-year project is $62 million.