Starting this spring, Minnesota 97 in Forest Lake will be reconstructed between Interstate 35 and U.S. 61 to improve traffic flow and safety.

Minnesota Highway 97 will be reconstructed between Interstate 35 and U.S. 61. (Courtesy of Minnesota Department of Transportation)

The $17 million project will include resurfacing the road, constructing a single-lane roundabout at Fenway Avenue, and adding turn lanes in specific locations.

A new multi-use trail will be constructed along the south side of 97 to provide a safer space for pedestrians and bicyclists, as well as a connection to the Hardwood Creek Regional Trail.

In addition, a raised median will be added to divide eastbound and westbound traffic on the two-lane roadway; the median also will serve as an accessible pedestrian crossing.

Construction will be done in two stages over a two-year period, with one half of the road under construction each year. Construction is scheduled to be done in the fall of 2026.

A public meeting for residents to learn more about the project will be 4-6 p.m. Tuesday in the Forest Lake City Center’s second-floor community room.

Project staff from the Minnesota Department of Transportation will be available to provide information about the project and answer questions. There will be no formal presentation, and attendees are welcome to arrive anytime during the meeting.

For more information, go to mndot.gov/metro/projects/hwy97-forestlake/.

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