Drivers heading to the Twin Cities may want to leave a bit early in coming weeks.

Motorists will encounter single lane traffic in both directions of Interstate 35 between the Straight River Rest Area and Faribault beginning today as crews start a resurfacing project.

The project begins with a three mile stretch from Owatonna south to the Straight River Rest Area. This phase will be completed in three to four weeks, weather permitting. The project will then move northward and cover 12 miles from Owatonna to Faribault.

The following ramp closures will also be in effect for up to three days at a time throughout the project: Steele County Road 34 and Steele County Road 9.

MnDOT anticipates periods of stop-and-go traffic in each direction before the construction zone due to heavy traffic volumes, especially on Friday and Sunday evenings. Motorists are encouraged to find alternate routes and avoid the area during peak travel times, if possible.

During backups, motorists should use both lanes and take turns merging into the construction zone, where single-lane traffic begins.