Interstate 94 Lane Restrictions Lifted Near Fergus Falls, Work Wraps

Lane restrictions on Interstate 94 between Rothsay and Fergus Falls were removed on December 2 as the Minnesota Department of Transportation moved the $22 million resurfacing project into its final phase. Work that began in May included pavement replacement and the installation of multiple safety features, and state crews completed remaining safety elements before reopening lanes to two way traffic.

The lifted restrictions come after months of staged work that required lane shifts and reduced speeds, a pattern that had prompted frustration among local drivers who relied on the corridor for daily commutes, agricultural transport and regional commerce. Restoring full lane capacity should ease travel times and reduce bottlenecks for trucks moving goods through Otter Tail County, officials said.

MnDOT communications emphasized that while lanes are open, winter conditions demand cautious driving. The agency reminded motorists to account for shorter daylight hours and variable road surfaces during the cold season. Local law enforcement and county highway officials are coordinating to monitor traffic patterns as holiday travel and winter weather begin to overlap.

Beyond immediate travel benefits, the resurfacing effort represents an investment in long term safety and reliability on a key east west route that links the region to larger metropolitan centers. New safety installations aim to reduce crash risk and support heavier commercial traffic during planting and harvest seasons, a consideration for area farmers and grain shippers who use the interstate extensively.

Residents reported relief at the reopening, but also concern over the duration of the project and impacts on daily routines. Business owners and service providers near Fergus Falls said clearer traffic flow will help timely deliveries and maintain access for customers, while emergency responders noted reduced delays for calls on stretches of roadway that had previously been constrained.

With major paving and safety work largely complete, MnDOT will continue follow up checks and maintenance to ensure the new surface and installations perform through the winter. Motorists passing through Otter Tail County should remain alert for any residual work zones, and plan extra time during adverse weather as crews finalize the last administrative and safety inspections.