06/04/2026
Highway 197 Bemidji construction update: June 2
The Highway 197 project in Bemidji will move into Stage 1B on Thursday, June 4, weather permitting. As part of this transition, traffic will shift onto the newly constructed temporary lanes.
Motorists should plan for lane closures, reduced speeds, and expect delays during the traffic shift. The temporary lanes will carry single‑lane traffic in each direction throughout Stage 1B.
This stage includes full reconstruction of the highway and the installation of a new roundabout at the Menards intersection. A regional truck detour will remain in place to support heavy vehicle traffic. Additional short-term detours for all motorists are planned later this summer during stages 1C and 1F; each is expected to last approximately two to three weeks.
What’s next?
During the week of June 8, crews are scheduled to begin removals in Stage 1B, in preparation of constructing the roundabout at the Menards entrance. MnDOT asks motorists to continue driving with caution and paying close attention while traveling through the construction area.
Notes:
Find the City of Bemidji staging maps, including current detour map here: mndot.gov/d2/projects/hwy197-bemidji/construction
The City of Bemidji project is well underway and making progress. The City is hopeful to have Middle School Drive back open to regular traffic in early-July.
The ATV trail on the north side of Highway 197 is in the work zone and is currently closed through the construction season.
Current traffic impacts
Stage 1B: June 4 to late-August
Traffic impact: Utilize temporary bypass, temp signals at Hwy 71 and Menards access road.
Regional truck detour (see map)
Have questions?
Call the project hotline 218-444-CONE (2663) or email [email protected] to connect with the business liaison.
Work zone safety reminders
Slow down when approaching every work zone
Never enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones
Stay alert; 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
Highway 197 Bemidji construction will begin Stage 1B on June 4, weather permitting.
Under the Hard Hat:
In this section, we will discuss a new topic each week to give further insight to the background of the project.
How do pedestrians cross a roundabout?
For pedestrians:
• Use only marked crosswalks and stay on designated walkways
• Cross one direction of traffic at a time
• Use the median island as a halfway point to safely check for approaching traffic before completing your crossing
• Follow flashing RRFB beacons when they are activated
For drivers:
• Come to a complete stop and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
• Wait until pedestrians are safely clear of your lane before proceeding
• Never pass a vehicle that is stopped or slowing for a crosswalk
Why this design works:
Roundabout crossings are designed as a two-stage crossing to simplify pedestrian movements and reduce the amount of traffic pedestrians interact with at one time.
For more information about pedestrians and roundabouts, visit:
mndot.gov/roundabouts
2026 Construction schedule
Construction will be completed in stages, starting May 4 through fall 2026.
May 4 to mid-June
Stage 1A: Construct temporary bypass lanes and crossover
Mid-June to late-August
Stage 1B: Reconstruct Highway 197, construct most of the roundabout (all except the northern leg)
Traffic impact: truck detour
Late-July to mid-August
Stage 1C: Reconstruct Highway 71/197 intersection
Traffic impact: East/West bypass lanes remain open, Highway 71 traffic detour
Mid-August to mid-September
Stage 1D: Extend Gillette Dr, construct northern leg of the roundabout
Traffic impact: East/West bypass lanes remain open
Mid-September to late-September
Stage 1F: Remove Highway 197 bypass lanes and temporary signals at Highway 71
Traffic impact:
Highway 197 East/West lanes open
Highway 71 closes at the north segment of the intersection
Highway 71 traffic detour
Stay connected
The Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce is serving as the business liaison for the project. For questions about business access or construction impacts, contact the Chamber at 218-444-CONE (2663) or [email protected].
Join MnDOT staff at the weekly public meeting on Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. at MnDOT Headquarters, 3920 Hwy 2 W, beginning May 20.
Visit the Highway 197 Bemidji project website for details, detour maps, weekly public meeting information, and to sign up for email updates.
Information will be shared on the MnDOT northwest Facebook group and on X .
For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.
More about this project
www.mndot.gov/d2/projects/hwy197-bemidji/index.html
Promote Your Business or Event!
Chamber Member Happenings is an easy way to share your news, events
and promotions with your fellow Bemidji Chamber members!
When: Second & fourth Wednesdays of each month
Cost: ONLY $50 per run
Artwork: 800 x 800 pixels in jpg, png, pdf, or animated gif format.
Deadline to submit is the Monday prior.
Contact us today to learn more!
Hwy 197 Bemidji- reconstruction project home page
