Extra Patrols Happening Near Stearns County Construction Zones

(KNSI) – The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office is urging motorists to heed traffic restrictions in county construction zones.

Personnel have received several complaints about drivers continuing through closed stretches, either entirely or with an exception solely for local traffic. The sheriff’s office in a release says refusal to respect the rules is unsafe for both workers and drivers, could potentially cause damage to the new road, and in rare cases may even result in the destruction of adjacent property.

Expect to see an increased presence near the work area on Highway 15 in Kimball, plus two projects on County Road 1, the first in Sartell and the other just west of the Rice Bridge.

The department cites Minnesota State Statute 160.2715:

“Except for the actions of the road authorities, their agents, employees, contractors, and utilities in carrying out their duties imposed by law or contract, and except as herein provided, it shall be unlawful to:

(14) drive over, through, or around any barricade, fence, or obstruction erected for the purpose of preventing traffic from passing over a portion of a highway closed to public travel or to remove, deface, or damage any such barricade, fence, or obstruction.”

It is recommended that drivers follow the detour routes that have been posted.

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