News Release

Bemidji, Mn. --- The Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) in Bemidji is advising drivers that the right northbound lane of Highway 197 on the south side of Lake Bemidji may not be opened as planned this winter if the weather doesn't cooperate.

Mn/DOT anticipated paving the right northbound lane and opening it this fall following completion of the utility work, but rain has been the major factor in delaying the paving operation. Jim Bittmann, Mn/DOT Project Engineer in charge of the operation said, "we are hoping that we may get a few days of warm, dry weather that will allow us to finish up with the paving for this year."

Bittmann added, "if we get a break in the weather as indicated in the extended forecast for next week, we are going in and laying down enough asphalt to bring the roadway to the same level with the other lane, making it acceptable for use this winter." The final bituminous wearing course is scheduled for next spring. Bittmann cautions drivers to remain alert in the construction area.

For road condition information, dial 511 or log on to www.511mn.org.

See ORANGE.

We’re in the WORK ZONE Together