Highway 197 Bemidji- Sept. 30
Stage 1 of the Hwy 197 project is wrapping up! The north leg of the new roundabout at Gillette Dr. is expected to open later this week.
Looking ahead, Stages 2 and 3 will begin next summer, including construction of roundabouts at Middle School Dr. and Hannah Ave.
 Striping on Gillette Dr. (north leg of roundabout) will take place over the next few days and is expected to open by the weekend. Photo taken Sept. 30.
 The signal poles were delivered today! Crews are currently working on wiring for the new signals. The permanent signals at the Highway 71/197 intersection will be installed next week. Photo taken Sept. 30.
 Crews are working on landscaping on the north side of Highway 197 this week. Photo taken Sept. 30.
What's happening now?
Gillette Dr. (north leg of the roundabout) is set to open later this week. Crews have began working on the installation of the permanent signals at Hwy 71/197. Motorists can expect temporary delays at the intersection during installation over the next week.
Once Gillette Dr. is open, most of the lane closures will be removed.
What’s next?
Motorists can expect short term delays in the project area while crews complete the final work of signal install and snow fence. The project is still on track to be complete in early October.
As work continues, please watch for workers and slow-moving equipment.
Resume construction in 2027
Just a friendly reminder that this is a two year project. In 2027, crews will begin construction again once road restrictions are lifted. During Stage 2, motorists can expect Highway 197 to be closed at Middle School Dr. The detour will include Hannah Ave and Anne St.
After the roundabout construction is complete at Middle School Dr, construction will begin at Hannah Ave, built half at a time and under traffic. The construction in 2027 is expected to have a similar timeline of the 2026 construction: approximately June through October.
MnDOT will host a public meeting in the spring to provide more detailed timeline and information.
Visit the Hwy 197 project website for more information.
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
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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?
Hwy 197 Bemidji - MnDOT
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