Hoping for a hassle-free commute out of downtown Minneapolis Friday afternoon? Leave work early.
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump pays a rare visit to the state, holding his invitation only "Trump Victory Fund" fundraiser at the Minneapolis Convention Center around the time the evening rush hour hits its peak.
Where Trump goes, protesters usually follow, so the south end of downtown could be gridlock. If streets are blocked, it won't be of the city's doing. Minneapolis has no plans to close off any street due to Trump's visit, said spokesman Casper Hill.
As the Trump fundraiser gets underway, commuters will have to contend with another burst of traffic around U.S. Bank Stadium. About 55,000 fans are expected to watch country singer Luke Bryan croon at the $1 billion home of the Minnesota Vikings. Some streets immediately around the stadium will be closed, including 4th Street between Park Avenue and I-35W, and Chicago Avenue between 4th and 6th streets.
Compounding the traffic flow is the ongoing closure of westbound Washington Avenue from Portland Avenue to 2nd Street S.
The city will deploy 17 traffic control agents and two supervisors on Friday night to help keep traffic around the stadium moving, Hill said.
The same number of agents will be on duty Saturday night when Metallica performs at the stadium, he said.
Tim Harlow • 612-673-7768
