News Release

Bemidji, Mn. -- The Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) would like to remind motorists that Trunk Highway 71, north of Bemidji, between Turtle River and Blackduck is still officially closed for construction.

According to Todd Vonasek, Mn/DOT's Resident Engineer in charge of the project, "until the final paving is completed the road remains closed to through traffic and the State Highway Patrol will continue ticketing those who are driving illegally through the site."

Vonasek anticipates that the highway will be open by mid-July.

Mn/DOT reminds drivers to "drive smart, drive safe."