Second J-Turn on Hwy 14 Between Rochester and Owatonna Now Open

Kasson, MN (MinnesotaNow) – The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has announced the completion of a new J-turn intersection in Dodge County.

The Highway 14 and Dodge County Road 9 intersection, just west of Kasson, now open to traffic, is part of ongoing efforts to enhance road safety on this busy corridor.

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This is the second J-turn implemented along Highway 14 between Rochester and Owatonna, with the first constructed in 2023 at Highway 14 and Olmsted County Road 3.

J-turns are designed to reduce the risk of severe crashes by simplifying the driving process at busy intersections. Instead of crossing multiple lanes of fast-moving traffic, drivers make a right turn onto the highway, proceed to a designated left-turn lane, and then complete a U-turn.

MnDOT's decision to construct the J-turn at this specific intersection was driven by concerning crash statistics. Over the past decade, the Highway 14 and County Road 9 intersection has seen 18 crashes, including three with injuries and one fatality.

J-turns are proven to reduce fatal crashes by 70% and injuries by 42%, making them a critical tool in MnDOT's road safety arsenal.

In addition to the J-turn, the ongoing Highway 14 project includes resurfacing pavement, installing high-tension cable barriers, improving drainage, and rehabilitating bridges.

The project is expected to be fully completed next week.

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