News Release

Bemidji, Mn. -- The Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) has started the construction of a new bridge on T.H. 197 over the Mississippi River in Bemidji this week and is asking drivers to slow down and be extremely alert to prevent any collisions. The exact location of the new bridge site is next to the Pamida store.

Duane Hill, Mn/DOT District Bridge Engineer, said "In addition to a new bridge the project will include approaches, walkways, lighting and signal system revisions between 3rd Street and just south of the Mississippi River on Trunk Highway 197."

Hill added, "the existing bridge on T.H. 197 currently has one lane closed to traffic traveling east and with increases in traffic volume due to seasonal visitors, motorists are advised to drive with patience.

The construction work associated with the new bridge is expected to last until early October.