Highway 71/197 Intersection Detour Lifted as Construction Nears Completion in Bemidji

Bemidji, MN — Drivers in Bemidji can breathe a sigh of relief as a major milestone has been reached on the Highway 197 project. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) announced that the north section of the Highway 71/197 intersection is now open to traffic, officially lifting the detour that has affected local commuters.

Work is still ongoing as crews focus on the north leg of the newly constructed roundabout along Gillette Drive. Construction teams are currently prepping the area for concrete paving. Once paving wraps up and the concrete properly cures, Gillette Drive is expected to fully reopen in late September.

While traffic flow is improving, motorists are advised to prepare for brief, short-term lane closures over the coming weeks. Crews are completing final touches, including sidewalk concrete work, signal foundations, signage, snow fencing, and landscaping, as well as replacing temporary signs with permanent ones.

The entire project remains on track for completion in early October. In the meantime, officials ask motorists to slow down, watch for construction crews and moving equipment, and continue supporting local businesses impacted by the construction zone.