MNDOT’s Mike Dougherty on Rochester Today

Minnesota Department of Transportation District 6 Public Affairs Coordinator Mike Dougherty stopped by the KROC-AM studio Wednesday morning for his monthly appearance on Rochester Today with Tracy McCray and Andy Brownell.

The show offers Mike an opportunity to you update KROC listeners on the various road construction projects taking place in southeastern Minnesota, and other MNDOT initiatives.

That includes a new state law that took effect last week that creates a higher and uniform fine for speeding violations in road construction zones. The $300 fine, which doesn't include various court fees and surcharges, is designed to grab the attention of motorists who fail to slow down when they encounter road construction projects and put those working on the projects in danger.

When asked if the elevated fine would be imposed for violations in construction zones where work is currently not taking place, Mike stressed that a motorist has no way of knowing exactly when or where construction crews might be present. As an example, he noted it is common for MNDOT personnel to be called out in the middle of the night to replace or rearrange construction cones and barrels that have been knocked out of place. A motorist traveling through the area at normal speeds might not have time to react.

Click play to listen to the show...