About the Project
Summary of work
Between MnDOT and the City of Bemidji there will be six roundabouts constructed between 2025 and 2027. Our portion of these projects are limited to Hwy 197 where we will replace the signalized intersections at Hannah Ave, Middle School Dr, and the Menard's road.
Along with intersection revisions the project includes:
- Improved pedestrian facilities with a 10' multi-use trail on both sides of the highway
- Improved corridor lighting
- Realignment of Gillett Dr NW
- Turn lane improvements
Learn more
Join us for an Open House on Thursday, Oct. 23, at the MnDOT Bemidji Headquarters, 3920 Highway 2 West. We are hosting two sessions, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Project schedule
MnDOT projects
2026
- Stage 1- Segment between Gillette Dr NW and Hwy 71
2027
- Stage 2- Middle School Dr segment with a roundabout at Hwy 197 intersection
- Stage 3- Hannah Ave segment with a roundabout at Hwy 197 intersection
City of Bemidji projects
2025
- Roundabout at Middle School Dr and 23rd St
2026
- Middle School Dr segment with a roundabout at Target entrance
- Hannah Ave segment with a roundabout at the Simonson's entrance
What changed?
The projects were originally intended to be complete in two years with the City doing their portion in year one and MnDOT in year two. That plan needed to be adjusted due to funding delays, which pushed both the City and MnDOT portions to be spread over two years each. We are working closely with the City to maximize efficiencies between the projects and minimize the overall disruption to businesses and residents.
Need for project
Upgrade infrastructure
In addition to aging pavement, portions of the storm sewer, curb and gutter, and sidewalk are more than 50 years old. Portions of the sidewalks are not in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and should be replaced. The signals at 23rd Street and Hannah Avenue are also approaching the end of their service lives.
Access for multi-modal use
The highway is not pedestrian or bicycle friendly. There are currently no bicycle facilities and no shoulder, which pushes vehicles even closer to pedestrians. Where there are sidewalks, there is no boulevard, which puts pedestrians along the curb near the road. The excessive entrances along this segment are an additional barrier to pedestrians.
Community health concerns
Highway 197 is perceived as a dangerous road, which limits accessibility to sidewalks and, in turn, limits physical activity. It is estimated that meeting the national physical activity guidelines can reduce the risk of all causes of death by 30 percent. Most locations in town are a reasonable walk or bike ride away. With better infrastructure in place, people can choose to walk or bike instead of drive to their destination, leading to an increase in physical activity within the community. This will help decrease health issues experienced by community members and decrease money spent on health care.