Red Rock On Air

ROSEVILLE, Minn. – Mn/DOT is taking additional steps to ease traffic congestion and delays as resurfacing and drainage work continues on both directions of Interstate 35 between Highway 95 in North Branch and Highway 361 in Harris through the end of October.

The project to repair badly deteriorated pavement between these two locations began July 10 and reduces the roadway to a single lane between the two points, causing major backups.

A Dynamic Merge System has been installed, directing and encouraging drivers to use both lanes of traffic until the merge point, then take their turns merging into the single lane section. Two additional portable changeable message signs also have been placed, one south of the Wyoming exit for northbound traffic and one north of the Pine City exit for southbound traffic, to remind motorists of an additional opportunity to use alternate routes.

The long-term lane restrictions are, in part, for safety’s sake. Crews need the extra space on the inside lanes in order to move equipment and stage for other parts of the construction project. In addition, drainage pipes, debris and equipment alongside the roadway can present a safety hazard to motorists.

This project is funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the goal of which is to create jobs and improve the nation’s infrastructure.