Hwy 87 traffic changes begin late July as construction progresses

BEMIDJI, Minn. – Motorists traveling on Highway 87 will move to the Stage 2 detour next week as construction progresses, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Stage 2 of the project is estimated to be complete in mid-August, weather permitting.

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 – late July

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: late July –mid-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: mid-August – early September

Stage 4: 179th Ave. to Blackberry Drive

No detour, lane closures with flagger/pilot car
Work to complete: bituminous surfacing, shouldering, signing

Duration: early September – late September

The project is currently ahead of schedule and expected to be complete late September, weather permitting. For more information as well as a detour map, visit the project website at 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.

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