Beginning Of The 35W/94 "Loop" (Minneapolis, Minnesota)

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Of all the eccentricities of the Twin Cities freeway system, this one probably produces the most grumbling of all. Look closely - you'll see two sets of parallel freeways, both with north/south traffic!!

Here's what happens: drivers heading north on 35W are confronted with two choices here - 35W north/94 East or 94 West/65 North into downtown Minneapolis (5th Ave. South). You must choose one or the other, as the freeway splits off.

Immediately after the two choices split off from each other, 94 West/65 North splits off, and southbound traffic from 35W south flies over it. Now there are two sets of parallel freeways.

Then cars make a sharp right turn. Northbound 35W traffic will make a left turn, but one lane will transition to 94 East.

The entire pattern repeats in reverse in opposite directions, except that 4th Avenue South is 65 South into the merge.

As confusing as it is, one must remember that in the Twin Cities - and indeed, the entire state of Minnesota - everything is INCREDIBLY well marked!! Keep an eye on the signs, and you'll do just fine whichever way you're going.