MnDOT Adds New Signage in Deadly Southern Minnesota Work Zone

Faribault, MN (KROC-AM News)- MnDOT is taking steps to increase safety through what has been a deadly work zone in southern Minnesota this summer. 

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A news release from the state transportation agency says the work zone has seen four fatal crashes that have claimed five lives. All of the fatalities have occurred since July 12. 

Last week MnDOT crews added new and larger signs on I-35 to the north and south of a work zone that runs through Faribault. Officials say the signs were placed to raise motorist awareness of slowing or stopped traffic and the approaching work zone. 

In all crews installed 10 portable changeable message signs. They replace the signs with flashers that were put up before the construction project began.

As with the original signs, the new, larger message boards are placed every five miles in advance of the work zone and are activated when MnDOT sensors indicate that traffic is slow or stopped. 

Construction crews also plan to install temporary rumble strips on the freeway in advance of the work zone to alert drivers to see the warning signs. The rumble strips are slated to be on the road sometime this week. 

I-35 has been reduced to a single lane through Faribault in both directions as part of a project to resurface the busy freeway. The work began in July and is set to wrap up for the year in October. Crews are scheduled to finish the resurfacing project next year.