Emerald ash borer-infected tree removal planned March 18 on Hwy 19 in Cannon Falls

CANNON FALLS, Minn. — Motorists on Highway 19 between Cannon Falls High School and downtown Cannon Falls may encounter lane closures or minor traffic delays beginning Monday, March 18 when Minnesota Department of Transportation maintenance crews remove a series of emerald ash borer-infected trees.

The work is scheduled to begin March 18 and run through March 22 to remove 35 ash trees in MnDOT right of way that were determined to be infected by the beetle. Removal will take place at this time and stump grinding of the sites will occur at a later date. MnDOT will dispose of the trees in the prescribed manner to minimize spread of the beetle.

To learn more about MnDOT’s roadside vegetation management regarding diseased trees in MnDOT right of way, go to the MnDOT website.

Safety
Drivers traveling too fast and not paying attention are the main causes of work zone crashes. Follow these safe driving tips:

Obey posted speed limits. The fine for speeding in a work zone is $300.
Drive undistracted. Avoid using phones, mobile devices, adjusting the radio – even eating – while in work zones.
Move over. Give workers room to safely complete their work.
Be patient. Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
Avoid making unnecessary lane changes.
Never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones.
Expect work zones to constantly change. Day to day you could experience lane shifts, closures, narrower lanes, moving workers and vehicles.

Stay connected, informed

Check out MnDOT southeast Minnesota construction projects and sign up for updates.
Know before you go. Get real-time information about traffic and road conditions at 511mn.org or download the free 511mn app at Google Play or the App Store.
Join the MnDOT Southeast Minnesota Facebook group; follow on MnDOT Southeast on Twitter.
Stay on top of winter driving events and closures. Sign up for text message and email updates.
Interested in a job with MnDOT? Career information for the State of Minnesota can be found at the Minnesota Management and Budget website. Come join us.

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