Construction on Highway 87 east of Hubbard begins May 20

BEMIDJI — The Minnesota Department of Transportation has announced that construction on Highway 87 east of Hubbard will begin May 20.

The project includes reconstructing Highway 87 from Third Crow Wing Lake to east of Hubbard. The project also includes shoulder widening and culvert replacements.

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-early August

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: early August-late 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: late August-mid September

Stage 4: 179th Ave. to Blackberry Drive

• No detour, lane closures with flagger/pilot car

• Work to complete: bituminous surfacing, shouldering, signing

• Duration: mid September-early October

The project is expected to be complete early-October, weather permitting. For more information as well as a detour map, visit the project website: www.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.

Please join the MnDOT District 2 Facebook group for updates on construction, road conditions and other transportation related topics. www.facebook.com/groups/mndotnorthwest/