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BEMIDJI — The lane shift onto the U.S. Highway 71 southbound lanes in Bemidji will be extended further south to the intersection with Highway 197 on Thursday, June 23.
It is expected to last until July 1.
According to a release about the update from the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the largest impact will affect Highway 71 northbound and southbound traffic moving into a single lane as they cross the Highway 197 intersection to enter and exit the construction zone.
Those vehicles will proceed the Highway 71 lane switch in the intersection, the release said.
The purpose of the change is to promptly complete paving operations on the southern portion of the Highway 71 project.
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Once complete, it will allow for MnDOT to re-open the currently closed westbound lane on Highway 197 to reduce congestion at the intersection.
Currently, crews are also paving the northern limits of the project near Winter Sumac Road. Paving at the north limits is expected to be complete by Monday, June 27.
For more information, a project map and sign up for weekly email updates, visit www.mndot.gov/d2/projects/hwy71-bemidji.
MnDOT reminds drivers to slow down, avoid distractions and follow traffic signs in work zones.
For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org .
