Minnesota Department of Transportation

511 Travel Info

Hwy 197- resurfacing

Bemidji

About the Project

picture of combined projects by the City of Bemidji and Minnesota Department of Transportation that will construct six roundabouts to the west of town by Target, Walmart and Menards
Between MnDOT and the City of Bemidji a total of six roundabouts will be constructed in Bemidji between 2025 and 2027.

Summary of work

Between MnDOT and the CIty of Bemidji there will be six roundabouts constructed between 2025 and 2027. Our portion of these projects are limited to Hwy 197 where we will replace the signalized intersections at Hannah Ave, Middle School Dr, and the Menard's road.

Along with intersection revisions the project includes:

  • Improved pedestrian facilities with a 10' multi-use trail on both sides of the highway
  • Improved corridor lighting
  • Realignment of Gillett Dr NW
  • Turn lane improvements

Project schedule

2025
  • City of Bemidji roundabout at Middle School Dr and 23rd St
2026

MnDOT will work west Hwy 71 while the city works to the east

  • MnDOT
    • Roundabout at the Menard's road
  • City of Bemidj
    • Roundabout at the Target entrance
    • Roundabout at the Simonson's entrance
2027

MnDOT will work on Hwy 197 east of the Hwy 71 intersection

  • MnDOT
    • Roundabout at Middle School Dr
    • Roundabout at Hannah Ave

What changed?

The projects were originally intended to be complete in two years with the City doing their portion in year one and MnDOT in year two. That plan needed to be adjusted though, so it pushed it into a third year. We are working closely with the City to maximize efficiencies between the projects and minimize the overall disruption to businesses and residents.