You should be aware of traffic changes on Hwy 61 in Forest Lake. If the weather is good, you’ll encounter single lane traffic in both directions when crews shift all traffic to the east side of the road on Tuesday, March 29.
Beginning at 7 a.m., southbound Hwy 61 traffic between the north intersection of Hwy 97/ Scandia Trail N and 202nd St. will be shifted to the left lane of northbound Hwy 61. Northbound Hwy 61 will use the right lane.
Southbound Hwy 61 motorists trying to go eastbound on the north intersection of Hwy 97 will be directed to take the signed detour of 210th St. to Goodview Ave.
Northbound Hwy 61 traffic going eastbound on the north intersection of Hwy 97 will be allowed until June 10. After that date, motorists will be detoured to 210th St. to Goodview Ave.
MNDOT will reopen the lanes by late August.
MNDOT is closing the lanes so crews can finish constructing the roundabouts. All work is weather dependent and may be rescheduled. MnDOT urges motorists to always be attentive, drive with caution and slowdown in work zones.
The work is part of a larger project to replace traffic signals at the north and south intersections of Hwy 61 and Hwy 97 and construct roundabouts. When completed in summer 2016, the $10.1 million project will improve traffic flow and safety, as well as improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities in the area.