Motorists will encounter a detour in Rushford when construction begins soon on Highway 43 in a project that will replace the street and improve curb, gutter, sidewalks and utilities along a one-mile stretch in the city, according to the city of Rushford.

The short detour is expected to take less than five minutes to drive into Rushford on Highway 43 north of Rushford. The project could begin as early as today, weather permitting.

Southbound motorists will be directed east a few blocks to a residential street that runs parallel to the highway into downtown. The southbound detour is open to all passenger vehicles and light trucks (under 7,000 pounds). Semis and other heavy vehicles traveling on Interstate 90 to Rushford should take the Highway 76 exit to Houston and turn west onto Highway 16 to Rushford. Motorists traveling northbound on Highway 43 will be able to cross the Highway 43/16 bridge across the Root River and turn west onto Highway 16 as they enter Rushford and either continue or take the signed detour route northbound.

Motorists should be able to access all Rushford businesses during the project by following detour and construction signs.

Much of the water and sewer system under the road has been in place for nearly 100 years. When the project is complete, motorists will experience a smoother ride surface and a safer highway; businesses and residents will have updated and repaired utilities that are expected to last 50 years or more.

McHugh Excavating of Onalaska, Wis., is the prime contractor for the $2.97 million project. Rushford and the Minnesota Department of Transportation are working cooperatively on this project. MnDOT is providing technical and financial support in excess of $1.5 million. The project is scheduled for completion in mid-November. With this project, MnDOT is working with the city to enhance an efficient and effective transportation system in southeastern Minnesota.

Motorists or businesses may call the Rushford City Hall, 507-864-2444 for more information.