SAINT PAUL, MN (April 13, 2023) – The City of Saint Paul will temporarily close Water Street/Lilydale Road beginning Friday, April 14, 2023 after 2 p.m. in anticipation of local street flooding caused by rising water levels of the Mississippi River. Water Street, which is located along the south side of the Mississippi River in Saint Paul will be closed to vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic between Hwy 13 and Plato Boulevard. Both the Pool and Yacht Club and Harriet Island remain open to visitors at this time. Temporarily closing Water Street, and portions of the city’s park facilities and trails are part of the city’s Flood Response Plan.
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
- Fish Hatchery Trail
- Harriet Island Pavilion and public dock
- Hidden Falls Regional Park
- Kelly's Landing
- Lamberts Landing
- Lilydale Regional Park
- Raspberry Island
- Robert Piram Trail
- Upper Landing
- Victoria Park
- Watergate Marina
Please follow all posted signage, do not pass barricades, and follow all safety guidance. Be aware that water levels can change quickly, so use caution while exploring areas close to the river.
The city will keep Water Street, 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.
“We monitor the Mississippi River levels all year long. Temporarily closing Water Street is a standard practice by the city when the river levels start to rise,” said Sean Kershaw, City of Saint Paul’s Director of Public Works. “We have been reaching out to businesses and property owners in areas that are typically impacted by rising flood waters to make sure they are prepared to put their required flood plans into action if needed. We want to remind people to be safe and always follow all posted signs when enjoying the river. Do not explore or go into any areas, trails, or roads that are closed due to the high water levels.”
Currently, the Mississippi River is measuring at a level of 8.66 feet and is expected to crest above 17 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.
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