BEMIDJI — The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that the U.S. Highway 71 construction project in Bemidji is near completion.
This Highway 71 corridor, from Highway 197 to Winter Sumac Road, will include intersection improvements of Reduced Conflict Intersections and a roundabout at Anne Street.
Motorists on Highway 71 can now access all four legs of the roundabout on Anne Street, and north and southbound lanes are open for traffic.
The inside lanes remain closed for median construction, which will go through project completion in early October.
During median construction, motorists can use the signed detours, Irvine Avenue ramps or the Anne Street roundabout.
More information about the project and its progress can be found on MNDOT’s website on the
Project benefits and cost
Benefits of the project include a safer road, smoother and longer-lasting driving surface, as well as intersection and pedestrian improvements to enhance safety for all users.
According to MnDOT, studies show an 86% decrease in fatal crashes at roundabouts and a 70% reduction in fatalities where J-turns are used. To learn more about roundabouts or how a J-turn works, and review their safety benefits, visit
or
MnDOT’s Reduced Conflict Intersections web page.
Knife River is the contractor for the $16.6 million project. Construction is scheduled to be completed in October.
Work zone reminder
- Slow down when approaching every work zone
- Never enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones
- Stay alert; watch for workers and slow-moving equipment
- Obey posted speed limits; fine for a work zone violation is $300
- Minimize distractions behind the wheel
- Be patient and expect delays, especially during peak travel times
MnDOT reminds drivers to slow down, avoid distractions and follow traffic signs in work zones.
