The Interstate 35 detour with U.S. Highway 14 near Owatonna opens to traffic today, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

I-35 northbound to Highway 14 eastbound traffic and Highway 14 westbound to I-35 southbound traffic was detoured while crews worked on constructing the new Highway 14/I-35 interchange

The work is part of the three-year reconstruction of Highway 14 from Waseca to Owatonna.

When completed, motorists will experience a smoother, safer ride, MnDOT reports.

Mathiowetz Construction Co. of Sleepy Eye is the prime contractor for the $51.8 million project. Work for the 2010 construction season will be finished in November. The entire project is expected to be completed by June 15, 2012.

MnDOT urges motorists to always drive with caution, slow down in work zones and never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones.

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