Thanks to Minnesota Locks for their support.
The realignment of the Smith/Dodd intersection is causing detours and construction headaches for local businesses and residents. Here’s how to get around the road work and get to local businesses.
What’s Closed?
Here’s a map showing where the current closures and work is happening:
Detours
The City of West St. Paul recommends two detours:
- A regional detour avoids the area completely, taking Highway 62 to Interstate 35E to Highway 13.
- A local detour takes Annapolis to Charlton to Butler to Delaware.
Driving: Avoid cutting through neighborhood streets and slow down. There have been increased police patrols to discourage speeding.
Public transit: The 62 bus route detours over to Charlton from Butler to Annapolis. See Metro Transit’s alerts for full detour information for route 62.
Walking and biking: Pedestrian and bike access is supposed to be maintained throughout the project. Currently there is a crossing over Dodd and Smith immediately north of the project. The sidewalk on the west side of the project is also currently open.
Business Access
“We cannot say enough good things about the city and the construction crew,” said Joey McCollum with Zak’s Auto Service. “Obviously, any construction is going to be a headache. But we appreciate everyone’s support.”
So how do you get to your favorite business? The project is maintaining business access, though it’s not always easy:
- Doddway Shopping Center: Currently the only way for cars to access Oxendale’s and other businesses in the Doddway Shopping Center is approaching from Bernard to the east. The entrances on Smith and Dodd road are both inaccessible.
- Zak’s Auto Service: Vehicle access is difficult since they’re in the middle of this project. But access is maintained from Dodd to the south. They’ve been informing customers when they make appointments. Clover Montessori has also been a good neighbor by sharing their parking lot.
- Clover Montessori School: Their entrance off Ottawa is the best way to approach the school.
- FoodSmith, Smith Liquor, and Chin Chin: The road closure is just past their parking lot, so you can approach these businesses from Smith Avenue to the north.
- Holiday gas station: They are accessible from Dodd Road approaching from the south, but only their southern entrance.
- Stone Mortgage Team, Mancave Barbershop, and Farmer’s Insurance: There’s very limited vehicle access to these buildings. Best bet would be to approach on Smith Avenue from the north, park on Smith, and walk.
- Pizza Shop: Fully accessible from Dodd Road (approaching from the south).
Current Updates
This info will likely change as the project continues. Stay current with updates from the city, available via email or text message.
Aug. 5, 2025 Update: Progress
Here’s a look at construction progress:
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