Motorists can expect delays tonight when Interstate 35 near Owatonna closes intermittently while crews work on the new bridge over the freeway, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Lanes in both directions will close for up to 15-minute intervals beginning at 11 p.m. and continuing to 5 a.m., weather permitting.

The work on I-35 is part of the three-year reconstruction of U.S. Highway 14 from Waseca to Owatonna, which also includes building a new interchange at I-35 and Highway 14.

When the entire project is completed, motorists will experience a safer and smoother ride surface.

Sleepy Eye-based Mathiowetz Construction Co. is the prime contractor for the $51.8 million project. Work is expected to be completed by June 15, 2012.