Southeast Minnesota state highway sealing project begins July 10

Motorists traveling on various state highways in Fillmore, Olmsted, Rice, Wabasha and Freeborn counties should plan for extra travel time beginning today, July 10, as crews begin sealing work to help extend state roadways’ life expectancy, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Delays should be minimal through the work zone. Sealing work will take place in both directions of the roadway, reducing traffic to one lane using flagging operations and a pilot car for traffic control.

Work begins July 10 northeast of Rochester and south of Harmony and will proceed, as weather permits. Crews will be working Monday through Saturday during daylight. It is anticipated that work should be complete early August.

Highways scheduled for sealing work include:
• Highway 52 from Harmony to Preston
• Highway 52 from Chatfield to Interstate 90 (Marion)
• Highway 63 at the roundabout (Northeast Rochester)
• Highway 139 from the Iowa/Minnesota Border to Harmony
• Highway 60 from Faribault to Kenyon
• Highway 60 from Zumbro Falls to Wabasha
• Highway 251 from Clarks Grove to Highway 218
• Highway 16 from Interstate 90 (Dexter) to Spring Valley
Safety
Drivers traveling too fast and not paying attention are the main causes of work zone crashes. Follow these safe driving tips:
• Obey posted speed limits. The fine for speeding in a work zone is $300.
• Drive undistracted. Avoid using phones, mobile devices, adjusting the radio – even eating – while in work zones.
• Move over. Give workers room to safely complete their work.
• Know before you go. Get real-time information about traffic and road conditions at 511mn.org or download the free 511mn app at Google Play or the App Store.
• Be patient. Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
• Do the zipper merge.
• Avoid making unnecessary lane changes.
• Never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones.
• Expect work zones to constantly change. Day to day you could experience lane shifts, closures, narrower lanes, moving workers and vehicles.

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