OTTER TAIL COUNTY, Minn. October 14, 2025 — Otter Tail County officials cut the ribbon on the new Fir and Friberg Avenue roundabout, celebrating the completion of a safety improvement project.
The roundabout, located near the YMCA, replaces a traditional intersection that had been experiencing issues due to increasing traffic volumes. The project also includes a new pedestrian trail connection along the north side of Fir Avenue to County Road 111.
“This roundabout represents a significant investment in public safety and our transportation infrastructure,” County Commissioner Sean Sullivan said. “We are grateful to our state partners, Sen. Rasmusson, our residents and the city of Fergus Falls for their collaboration in making this critical improvement a reality.”
Thanking the Community
County officials expressed appreciation to area residents and businesses who navigated detours and delays throughout the construction season.
“The patience and understanding shown by residents living near this intersection and those who regularly travel through this area made this project possible,” shared County Highway Engineer Jodi Teich. “We know construction is never convenient, but the cooperation we received from the community was appreciated. This roundabout will improve safety and traffic flow for years to come.”
Businesses near the intersection, including the Fergus Falls YMCA, remained accessible throughout construction, though access points shifted as work progressed.
Partnership Effort
The project represents a collaborative effort between Otter Tail County, the city of Fergus Falls and the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
“Through partnership with Fergus Falls and Otter Tail County leaders, I was happy to support the $790,000 Local Road Improvement Program grant for the Friberg and Fir Avenue roundabout,” said Sen. Jordan Rasmusson. “As our community grows and local infrastructure ages, we need to update our infrastructure and ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians.”
Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Tour
Patrick Hollister, Active Living Planner for Partnership4Health, will lead a Roundabout Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Tour on Thursday, October 30, at 5:00 p.m.
The public is welcome to join in the Fergus Falls YMCA parking lot. Participants are encouraged to bring their bikes and bike helmets but are welcome without them. The group will walk or bike to the roundabout and practice crossing the roundabout on foot and by bike. The hands-on tour is designed to help pedestrians and cyclists navigate the new infrastructure safely and confidently.
Looking Ahead
The Fir/Friberg roundabout is part of Otter Tail County’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure improvements. County officials presented a 2025 road and bridge project plan earlier this year, including the Highway 52 reclamation project and Highway 35 shoulder widening. Reconstruction work on Highway 1 continues.
Residents are encouraged to follow progress on county projects by visiting ottertailcounty.gov/projects.