Highway 197 Bemidji- August 26
  Roundabout looking east toward the Hwy 71 intersection. The red concrete around the circle is called a truck apron. It is mountable and gives larger vehicles, such as semis and trailers, extra room to make the turn when needed.
 At the Hwy 71 intersection, you can see the temporary traffic signals that will be moved during the next stage of construction.
 The new roadway includes a multi-use trail on both sides. The trail will be extended and connected as part of next year’s work at Middle School Drive and Hannah Avenue.
 The project includes improved pedestrian crossings. Because drivers are already slowing as they approach the roundabout, they have more time to see and stop for people crossing. The two-stage crossing also allows pedestrians to cross one direction of traffic at a time, with a refuge area in the middle.
What's happening now?
This week, landscaping work will begin along with concrete work of sawing and sealing joints, curb, gutter and the multi-use trail on the south side of Highway 197.
A major traffic change is coming Monday, Aug. 31. Traffic will move from the temporary bypass lanes onto the new Highway 197 pavement and through the new roundabout.
Motorists should expect delays on Monday while crews make the traffic switch. Please allow extra time and use caution as everyone gets familiar with the new traffic pattern.
During the switch, the traffic signal at the Highway 197/71 intersection will operate as a flashing red light. Drivers should come to a complete stop and proceed when it is safe to do so. See more information below on how to drive through a flashing red light.
Before the traffic switch, crews will complete striping and sign installation. Landscaping work is also beginning this week, along with concrete work that includes sawing and sealing joints, curb and gutter, and the multi-use trail on the south side of Highway 197.
What’s next?
Stage 1D: Traffic moves onto new Highway 197
Begins Monday, Aug. 31
Traffic will begin using the new Highway 197 driving lanes and roundabout. Some areas will remain reduced to one lane in each direction while crews finish concrete work, lighting installation and landscaping.
Once traffic is moved onto the new lanes, crews will begin constructing the north leg of the roundabout and extending Gillette Drive.
As work continues, please watch for workers and slow-moving equipment and follow posted traffic control.
Stage 1F: Reconstruct Highway 71 intersection, north side
Duration: 2 weeks in mid-September
This stage will reconstruct the north side of the Highway 71/197 intersection. The north portion of the intersection will close while this work is completed.
Traffic will be detoured using Hannah Avenue and Anne Street. Temporary compact roundabouts will also be installed at 30th Street and Anne Street to help keep traffic moving during the short-term detour.
Visit the Hwy 197 project website for more information about upcoming construction stages.
Reminders:
- All construction activities and traffic impacts are weather dependent.
- MnDOT asks motorists to continue driving with caution and paying close attention while traveling through the construction area.
- The business liaison on the project is the Bemidji Chamber. Stay connected with local businesses impacted by construction by following the Bemidji Chamber on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BemidjiChamber
- Crews ask that vehicles remain on the temporary bypass lanes and do not enter the work zone.
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Please support your local businesses! During the construction, if you're trying to access a business within the work areas, check in with them on the best way to get there. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.
Have questions?
- Call the project hotline 218-444-CONE (2663) or email 197@bemidji.org to connect with the business liaison.
Under the Hard Hat
Driving Through a Flashing Red Signal
During the traffic switch to Stage 1D, the signal at the Highway 71 intersection will flash red for a short time. When you see a flashing red light:
• Come to a complete stop.
• Look for other vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
• Proceed through the intersection only when it is safe.
• Follow signs, barrels, and flaggers. Lane shifts and new traffic patterns may be in place.
A flashing red signal works the same as a stop sign. Stopping and checking your surroundings helps keep everyone safe during construction, especially while crews complete the traffic change.
 Stage 1D is the next traffic impact when motorists will be utilizing the "new" driving lanes on Highway 197 while crews construct the north leg of the roundabout and extend Gillette Drive. This stage is expected to begin in late-August.
Stage 1F will take place mid to late-September. This stage includes closing the north part of the Highway 197/71 intersection to complete the reconstruction. The detour includes Hannah Avenue and Anne Street. Temporary compact roundabouts will be installed on 30th Street and Anne Street to keep traffic flowing during this short-term detour.
 Stage 1 construction on Hwy 197 in 2026 includes a roundabout, boulevard space and a multi-use trail on both sides of the highway. Stage 2 will begin in 2027 where MnDOT will replace the signalized intersections along Hwy 197 at Hannah Avenue and Middle School Drive.
Hwy 197 Bemidji - MnDOT
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