The Minnesota Department of Transportation will close the Stillwater Lift Bridge in both directions over the St. Croix River starting at 10 a.m. Monday due to high water levels.

The bridge, which connects Hwy. 36 in Minnesota and Hwy. 64 in Wisconsin, will remain closed until further notice.

Motorists are being directed to use Interstate 94 or Hwy. 243 as alternate routes.

Minnesota transportation officials are making drivers aware of the following: When a road is closed, it is illegal to travel on it. Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or be sentenced to 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other costs and penalties will apply.