New traffic signs now being placed along area highways

The replacement of traffic signs which are at the end of their service lives began Monday along several highways in southcentral and southwest Minnesota, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Traffic signs located on various highways in the following counties will be replaced: Blue Earth, Jackson, Le Sueur, Nicollet, Nobles, Rock, Sibley and Waseca.

MnDOT replaces traffic signs on a 15-year cycle to ensure signs are legible for motorists during the day and at night. Over time, traffic signs experience wear and tear, and frequently lose reflectivity in low-light conditions long before indications of their age are obvious in normal conditions.

There will be little impact to traffic on other state highways during the sign replacement, however, MnDOT reminds motorists to drive with caution and watch for crews working near the roadway. The project is expected to be completed by mid-August, weather permitting.

Safety Signs, LLC was awarded the project with a bid of $991,000.