Two popular bike and pedestrian trails in Minneapolis and nearby suburbs will be closed in May for up to three years as construction of the $2 billion Southwest light-rail line moves forward.
The Cedar Lake Trail, which begins in downtown Minneapolis, is slated to be closed for two years through Hopkins and St. Louis Park, according to the Metropolitan Council, which is building the light-rail line. The portion of the trail that is closing starts east of the North Cedar Lake Trail connection in Hopkins and continues to France Avenue in St. Louis Park.
In addition, part of the Kenilworth Trail in Minneapolis will be closed for three years. The part that is closing begins at the trail's intersection with the Midtown Greenway, extending northeast to south of W. 21st Street.
The two trails could be closed as soon as May 13. Signs notifying users of detours will be posted along both trails. Once closed, various activities, including field surveys, installation of construction site fencing, erosion control, utility relocations and tree and brush removal will begin.
The Met Council plans to rebuild the trails as part of the Southwest light-rail project.
Southwest, an extension of the existing Green Line, will connect downtown Minneapolis with Eden Prairie, with stops in St. Louis Park, Hopkins and Minnetonka along the way. Service is expected to begin in 2023.
Janet Moore • 612-673-7752
Twitter: @MooreStrib
