The Minnesota Department of Transportation, in conjunction with the Albert Lea Public Works Department, closed both lanes of East Main Street in Albert Lea on Wednesday afternoon due to flooding.

The flooding is near Godfather’s Pizza and Hanson Tire Service

East Main Street was closed at Katherine Street on Wednesday morning. By the afternoon, MnDOT announced its intentions to close the street at Garfield Avenue. MnDOT is involved in the street closing because the roadway is also U.S. Highway 65.

Traffic is being detoured to Newton Avenue, Front Street, Garfield Avenue then back to Highway 65. Detour signs are in place.

Motorists should plan accordingly. When a road is closed it is illegal to travel in that area. Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other expenses and penalties will apply.