The long-awaited transformation of Duluth’s notorious “Can of Worms” interchange is complete. On Monday, October 6, Governor Tim Walz, Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert, and other state and local leaders gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the opening of the $435 million Twin Ports Interchange project.
Construction on the project began in 2021 to replace the outdated and confusing junction of Interstate 35, Interstate 535, and Highway 53. The redesigned interchange eliminates blind merges and left exits, relocates all entrances and exits to the right side of the roadway, and enhances merging sight distance, thereby increasing safety and improving traffic flow.
“The ‘Can of Worms’ is officially no longer a thing,” Mayor Reinert said during the ceremony. “After years of construction, we are finally able to reconnect the backbone transportation system of northern Minnesota and northern Wisconsin.”
The interchange serves more than 80,000 vehicles daily, including over 5,300 heavy commercial trucks. It is a key route for freight moving to and from the Port of Duluth-Superior and throughout the region. The project also incorporated environmental measures, including water treatment systems capable of processing hundreds of gallons per minute during construction.
“This project is about more than new roads and bridges. It supports the flow of commerce that keeps Minnesota moving and will make travel for Duluth residents and everyone who visits the Northland a little safer,” said Governor Walz. “The Twin Ports Interchange is a vital link for families, businesses, and freight across the region. Thanks to the long-term vision of state and community leaders, we are setting Minnesota up for decades of growth.”
While major construction is complete, landscaping and cleanup will continue into 2026. The final section of the interchange is expected to open fully to traffic by October 24.
The Twin Ports Interchange project, one of Minnesota’s most significant infrastructure undertakings in recent years, promises safer, more efficient travel and improved connectivity for the region for decades to come.
