MnDOT Removing Warning System After Increase in Crashes at Southeast Minnesota Intersection

Dennison, MN (KROC-AM News)- The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is removing a warning system installed at a southeast Minnesota intersection. 

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Officials say crashes at the intersection increased after crews put in the electronic warning signs. 

MnDOT District 6 Spokesman Mike Dougherty says the signs, which flash when vehicles are in the area of the intersection, were installed in 2013.     

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MnDOT Scrapping Warning System Put in at Hwy. 56 & Goodhue County Rd. 9 Intersection

Crews will be removing the electronic warning signs at the intersection of Hwy. 56 and Goodhue County Rd. 9 near Dennison on Wednesday and Thursday. 

County Rd. 9 traffic is required to stop at the intersection. The system will show County Rd. 9 motorists when traffic is approaching and alerts Hwy. 56 traffic to vehicles waiting at the intersection. 

A MnDOT news release says the signs, known as the “Rural Intersection Conflict Warning System” failed to improve safety at the intersection. Crashes at the intersection increased last year, despite the warning system being in place, according to MnDOT. 

Officials says they are hoping the removal of the warning system will simplify the intersection. 

“This removal helps simplify the intersection for motorists, while maintaining dual oversized flashing stop signs, pavement markings, rumble strips and pre-intersection signs warning of stops ahead,” said Chad Hanson, MnDOT District 6 traffic engineer. 

MnDOT is highlighting other improvements made at the intersection, including the installation of rumble strips on County Rd. 9, large and flashing stop signs on County Rd. 9, signs telling County Rd. 9 motorists that cross traffic does not stop and stop ahead signs and pavement markings.