MnDOT has established its demonstration project on 6th Street and Highway 197 or Paul Bunyan Drive near Library Park in downtown Bemidji. ]
The measure got the approval of the council last week, as it is a temporary structure designed to mimic a more permanent solution.
This project involves a temporary pedestrian refuge island with a barrier and a freshly painted crosswalk.
This will prevent left turns onto 6th Street from northbound Highway 197.
MnDOT says the project will test safety benefits and help them evaluate if the temporary installation could become a permanent solution.
MnDOT Planning Director Jon Mason says the refuge should help people who walk and bike, especially during events at Library Park.
The temporary installation will be removed before winter, and community members are asked to test the project and provide feedback.
