Minnesota Takes Preventive Measures

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has installed 43 gates on Interstate 90 from the South Dakota border to Interstate 35 at Albert Lea to keep motorists off the road when winter weather gets too rough.

The gates are designed to replace the barricades used in the past that blew over and permitted motorists to drive around them.

"We believe the gates will not only ensure the safety of the travelling public, but also reduce or eliminate snowplow drivers, law enforcemnt officials and other teams from risking their lives in unnecessary rescues," said George Welk, a maintenence engineer with MDOT.

When severe winter storms create life threatening conditions, the gates will be closed and signs will warn motorists that they must exit the road.

Going around a closed gate could cost up to $700 in fines and 90 days in jail. Another newly enacted law makes motorists responsible for the costs of unnecessary rescues.

Currently, the gates and signs are operated by MDOT, but the agency is looking into the possibility of one day closing the gates by remote control.