Hwy 87 traffic changes begin late July as construction progresses
BEMIDJI, Minn. – Motorists traveling on Highway 87 will move to the Stage 2 detour next week as construction progresses, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Stage 2 of the project is estimated to be complete in mid-August, weather permitting.
Staging information and detour routes are subject to change. Estimated durations and detour routes are as follows:
Stage 1: Hubbard CR 20 to CR 13
- Detour: Hubbard CR 17, Hubbard CR 20, Hubbard CR 13
- Work to complete: grading, aggregate base
- Duration: mid-May – late July
Stage 2: 179th Ave. to Hubbard CR 20
- Detour: Hwy 87, Hwy 71, Hwy 34, Hubbard CR 20, Hubbard CR 17, Hubbard CR 13, Hwy 87
- Work to complete: grading, aggregate base
- Duration: late July –mid-August
Stage 3: Hubbard CR 13 to Blackberry Drive
- Detour: Hubbard CR 20, Hwy 34, Hubbard CR 33, Hwy 64
- Work to complete: grading, aggregate base
- Duration: mid-August – early September
Stage 4: 179th Ave. to Blackberry Drive
- No detour, lane closures with flagger/pilot car
- Work to complete: bituminous surfacing, shouldering, signing
- Duration: early September – late September
The project is currently ahead of schedule and expected to be complete late September, weather permitting. For more information as well as a detour map, visit the project website at mndot.gov/d2/projects/hwy87-hubbard.
Project benefits and cost
Benefits of the project include a safer road, improved drainage, and a smoother and longer lasting driving surface. Anderson Brothers is the contractor for the $6.2 million project.
Important reminders for motorists regarding work zone safety:
- Slow down when approaching every work zone, then navigate through with care and caution.
- Stay alert; work zones constantly change.
- Watch for workers and slow-moving equipment.
- Obey posted speed limits. Fine for a violation in a work zone is $300.
- Minimize distractions behind the wheel.
- Be patient; expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
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