About this project
- Expansion of Hwy 23 from New London to Paynesville from two lanes to four lanes.
- Watch a video overview of the project (YouTube).
Traffic impacts
- Access to/from CR 2 from Hwy 23 closed Aug. 12 through mid- September for the realignment process; follow posted detour using CR 6.
- Work in 2024 will be under traffic, with no planned detours.
- Please use caution through the work zone (see map).
Project updates
Sep. 6, 2024
- Crews have installed an 8x7 box culvert and are backfilling it.
- Final smoothing of the road surface is being done to prepare for asphalt paving; this includes work on CR 2, pipe areas, and turn lanes.
- Paving operations for the final segment of roadway are scheduled to begin Sep. 18.
- Work schedules are weather dependent.
Background
Hwy 23 is an important interregional corridor that is a key artery for the economy in the region. It provides the primary east-west route connecting Willmar to Interstate 94 and beyond. The segment of Hwy 23 between Willmar and Interstate 94 is a distance of approximately 53 miles. Of these 53 miles, all but 16 miles have been constructed as a four lane roadway.