Minnesota State Wire

Motorists traveling on Highway 19 between Northfield and Interstate 35 may face lane closures and traffic slowdowns on January 27, as crews conduct pavement tests. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) announced that these closures will occur from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., affecting both directions of travel.

The purpose of the tests is to prepare for a future construction project scheduled for 2027 on this section of the highway. Due to the volume of vehicles, brief traffic delays are expected during the testing period.

MnDOT advises motorists to be cautious when approaching work zones, which may include lane closures, shifts, uneven surfaces, and slow-moving equipment. Drivers are urged to obey speed limits, avoid distractions such as mobile devices or eating while driving, and give workers space by moving over where possible.

For real-time updates on traffic conditions, MnDOT recommends visiting their website at 511mn.org or using the free smartphone app available on Google Play or the App Store. Motorists should also practice patience and expect delays during peak travel times.

MnDOT encourages drivers to stay informed about southeast Minnesota construction projects through their projects page.