News Release

Bemidji, Mn. -- The Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) is reminding motorists to slow down in the construction zone on Trunk Highway 71 from the east junction with Highway 200 at Kabekona Corner to the junction with Hubbard County Highway 9 (South Plantagenet Road),

Mn/DOT Project Engineer Bill Pirkl, said the detour was removed today but sections of Highway 71 where culverts have been replaced remain unpaved. Pirkl cautions drivers to obey speed advisory signs which are in place because of loose gravel and bumps.

With the detour removed, the remaining portion of the project is being done under traffic and motorists will be guided through the work zone by a pilot car. Drivers are asked to be extremely patient and plan ahead for delays which could last up to 15 minutes. Flagging operations will also be used for the duration of the project.

The work is expected to be complete by October 8th, contingent upon weather conditions.

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