About this project
MnDOT is replacing two bridges crossing Buffalo Creek on Hwy 212, west of County Road 9, in Plato. This two-year project runs from 2026 to 2027.
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Summary of work
Replace westbound bridge in 2026
Replace eastbound bridge in 2027
Traffic impacts
Our goal is to minimize disruption to traffic and prevent construction delays during the project. To achieve this, preparatory work began in late 2025. This includes constructing traffic crossovers ahead of time, eliminating the need for a detour during the bridge construction in 2026.
Constructing lane crossovers includes setting up temporary lanes alongside the existing lanes to allow traffic to flow smoothly and safely during the bridge work.
Once work begins in 2026 to replace the bridges, the lane crossovers will remain in place throughout the duration of the project. Construction is expected to last the entire summer.
Below are maps showing the crossover locations for both westbound and eastbound traffic:
Project update: August 4, 2026
- Crews poured the west concrete abutment and worked on placing riprap on the east side of the bridge. Riprap is a layer of large stones placed together to act as a heavy protective armor for the ground.
- Next week the contractor plans switch the cofferdam and work on the west pier. A cofferdam is a watertight enclosure allowing crews to work in a dry area.