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
Aug. 23, 2024
- Crews are installing an 8 x 7 box culvert and backfilling it.
- They are grading at County Road 2.
- Pipe work continues throughout the project.
- Shaping the slopes is underway.
- Paving operations for the final segment of roadway are scheduled to begin the week of Sept. 9 or 16.
- 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.