Southern Minnesota Road Project Hits Milestone After Deadly Season

Faribault, MN (KROC-AM News)- Work has concluded for the year in a southern Minnesota road construction zone that saw multiple fatalities during the construction season. 

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I-35 was reduced to a single lane through Faribault in both directions as part of a project to resurface the busy freeway. The work began in July. 

Earlier this week, MnDOT announced crews completed the work scheduled for the first year of the two-year project. Roads, lanes and exit ramps that were closed during the work have reopened. 

The workzone saw its share of tragedies during active construction. Four crashes claimed five lives in the work zone between July 12 and early September. 

That prompted MnDOT to add larger messaging signs to warn motorists heading towards the workzone of slowdowns ahead of them. Construction crews also installed temporary rumble strips on the freeway in advance of the work zone to alert drivers to see the warning signs. 

The State Patrol has not reported any fatal accidents since the new signs and rumble strips were added to the work area. Crews are scheduled to resume the project in the Spring of 2024. 

The project’s next tasks include resurfacing northbound and southbound I-35 and reconstructing ramps at Rice County Road 48, Hwy. 60, and Hwy. 21.