WASHINGTON COUNTY, MN — Motorists will encounter flaggers and a reduced speed limit as crews relocate utilities beneath Highway 95 between Bailey Road and 70th Street. Crews had to temporarily lower the speed limit to 45 mph in the work area due to "excessive speeding," according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

"Speed is a leading factor in crashes," Minnesota State Patrol Lt. Tiffani Nielson said in a statement. "Speeding through construction zones puts workers lives at risk since the distance between vehicles and where crews are working is usually just a few feet. Please slow down and pay attention through construction zones on Hwy 95 and throughout the state."

The reduced speed limit is expected to be lifted on Tuesday, March 20.

The utility work is needed to prepare for the upcoming safety improvement construction project. Construction crews are also clearing trees and other minor construction along the Highway 95 work area. Motorists will also encounter daily shoulder closures through the work zone. This work is part of a larger safety improvement project on Highway 95 from Valley Creek Road to Highway 61.



This years' work includes road resurfacing, widening shoulders, updating highway drainage system, installing mumble strips, constructing turn lanes and improving sight distance at specific locations. The 2018 construction will require a 90-day full road closure. Local property access will be maintained throughout construction. The full closure is anticipated to take place from early June to Sept. 7.

The 2018 construction is expected to be complete by Oct. 18, weather permitting. The improvements will enhance safety, provide a smoother road surface and improve traffic flow in the corridor.

The next stage of construction on Highway 95 will occur in 2019-2020 between 70th Street and Highway 61.