SAINT PAUL— The City of Saint Paul, in coordination with Ramsey County, will close Shepard Road/Warner Road beginning Sunday, April 16, 2023 after 6 p.m. in anticipation of street flooding caused by rising water levels of the Mississippi River. A 3.2-mile stretch of Shepard Road/Warner Road, located along the north side of the Mississippi River along downtown Saint Paul, will be closed to vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic between Eagle Parkway and Highway 61.
As part of this road closure, Sibley Street and Jackson Street between Kellogg Boulevard and 2nd Street will be closed to through traffic. These one-way street segments that normally connect to Shepard Road will be temporarily converted to two-way traffic open only to access the buildings. Temporarily closing Shepard Road/Warner Road is part of the city’s Flood Response Plan when rising river levels near the moderate flood stage of 15 feet.
Due to rising water levels in the Mississippi River, several parkland areas, trails, and facilities in Saint Paul have temporary closures. Before going to any Saint Paul parks, please check for updated facility, trail, and park closures on the website at www.stpaul.gov/flood:
- Chestnut Plaza
- City House
- Crosby Farm Regional Park
- Desnoyer Trail/ Meeker Island Dog Park
- Fish Hatchery Trail
- Harriet Island Pavilion and public dock
- Hidden Falls Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Kelly’s Landing
- Lamberts Landing
- Lilydale Regional Park (including boat launch)
- Pig’s Eye Park
- Raspberry Island
- Robert Piram Trail
- Upper Landing
- Victoria Park
- Watergate Marina
The city urged citizens to use caution while exploring areas close to the river. Water levels can change quickly. Follow all posted signage and safety guidance. Do not pass barricades.
The city will keep several road closures, along with several park areas and facilities, closed until the Mississippi River water levels have receded and everything can be safely cleared and reopened for public use.
“Closing Shepard Road due to flooding is a necessary step we do in partnership with the County to protect public and private infrastructure for all,” said Sean Kershaw, City of Saint Paul’s Director of Public Works. “We encourage everyone to be prepared and plan alternate routes to get in, out, and around Saint Paul for the next several weeks.”
Currently, the Mississippi River is measuring at a level of 10.52 feet and is expected to crest above 18 feet, according to the National Weather Service’s forecast. The City’s Flood Response Plan calls for initial action steps at a river level of 10 feet. Minor flood stage is reached at 14 feet. Moderate flood stage is at 15 feet. Major flood stage is at 17 feet.
For more information and updates, please visit www.stpaul.gov/flood.
