BEMIDJI — The Bemidji City Council received a promising update regarding a State Highway 197 project during Monday's work session. In 2026, MnDOT will focus on an area of Highway 197 — Paul Bunyan Drive NW — between L&M Fleet Supply and U.S. Highway 71, constructing one roundabout. News Middle School Drive reconstruction project underway in Bemidji The current phase of the project includes Middle School Drive NW, from 23rd Street NW to the Target delivery access. Then, in 2027, MnDOT will focus on a second portion of Highway 197 between Highway 71 and Pine Ridge Avenue, constructing two additional roundabouts at the intersections of Middle School Drive and Hannah Avenue. If MnDOT does not receive the RAISE grant as presently projected, it would not continue moving forward with the Highway 197 project until alternative funds are secured.