Helicopter Work Planned Along I-94 Between Alexandria and Sauk Centre

Information provided by Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Motorists on Interstate 94 between Alexandria and Sauk Centre may notice crews in helicopters working near the interstate starting Wednesday, May 1.

The CapX2020 utilities will use a helicopter for work on several transmission structures that were installed along I-94. A helicopter will fly near the new transmission structures with a lineman suspended from a tethered line.

The helicopter work is expected to take about one week.

The Minnesota State Patrol, Minnesota Department of Transportation and the CapX2020 utilities urge motorists to avoid gawking at the helicopter work and keep moving through the work zone.

“Minnesota law does not allow motorists to stop on a freeway unless it is for an emergency,” said Sgt. Jesse Grabow, Minnesota State Patrol.  “Failing to comply can result in a citation and fine.”

About the CapX2020 Alexandria-St. Cloud project

The Alexandria-St. Cloud project is a 345 kV transmission line between the Quarry Substation west of St. Cloud and the Alexandria Substation west of Alexandria. Crews completed foundation work March and installation of transmission structures is ongoing. The CapX2020 utilities plan to start stringing conductor (wire) between the structures in early June. The 78-mile line is expected to be in service in May 2014.