Minnesota Department of Transportation

511 Travel Info

News releases

May 28, 2026

Latest news releases

Highway 40 detoured three miles south of Lac Qui Parle Valley High School starting June 1

WILLMAR, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation will begin construction June 1 on a project to replace the bridge on Highway 40 with 2 box culverts approximately three miles south of Lac Qui Parle Valley High School. 

Travel impacts

  • During construction, Highway 40 will be closed, and traffic will be detoured to Hwy 75, CR 22, CR 19, and CR 26. 
  • Construction is expected to be completed by July 25.
  • Motorists should plan for additional travel time and follow posted detour signs.

Benefits and costs

  • Culvert Replacement: Updating the structure for safety, functionality, and smoother surface.
  • Load restrictions: Removing current weight limits for safer travel.
  • Long-term durability: Extending the life of the infrastructure and reducing future repairs.
  • The contractor for the $1.2 million project is Midwest Contracting.

Stay connected

  • Learn more about project or sign up for email updates at Hwy 40 Bridge to Culvert Replacement - MnDOT
  • Join the Southwest Minnesota Facebook group for news, events, and updates
  • For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store

###