Highway 2 project from Highway 32 to Erskine near completion

Bemidji, Minn. – MnDOT announced today motorists on Highway 2 between Highway 32 and Erskine can now access both eastbound and westbound lanes. Motorists will experience lane closures while crews complete striping and rumble strips. The project is expected to be complete by mid-November, weather permitting.

During the project, crews installed a J-turn at Marcoux corner. It also included replacing the concrete pavement on the eastbound lanes between Highway 32 and two miles west of Erskine, as well as a portion east of Erskine near the weigh station.

Hoffman Construction was the contractor for the $22.3 million project. The improvements provide a smoother roadway and increase safety. For more information, visit the website at http://www.mndot.gov/d2/projects/2021/hwy2-rci.

J-turns decrease fatalities and injuries caused by T-bone crashes on four-lane divided highways. In some parts of the country, they are sometimes referred to as R-CUTs, Michigan Lefts, or Reduced Conflict Intersections. J-turns improve safety, with up to a 70 percent reduction in injury crashes nationwide.

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. http://www.facebook.com/groups/mndotnorthwest. For a complete list of projects for 2021, please visit http://www.mndot.gov/d2. For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit http://www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.