2026 Priority Projects

2026 Coalition Priority Projects Overview

This year’s priority projects reflect our commitment to delivering tangible results through collaboration with state and local stakeholders. However, as the costs of these essential projects continue to rise, securing additional funding has become more crucial than ever. We are actively advocating for increased investments to ensure these vital infrastructure improvements can be completed without delay.

2026 Projects Individuals 1
4-Lane Extension SW of Willmar from Highway 71 to Kandiyohi County Road 5

This project has been added to the 2025 Highway 23 Coalition Priority Projects list. There is currently a 4-lane highway up to Highway 71, but not further west. The goal is to get the approximately 2.5 mile stretch of Highway 23 converted from 2-lane to 4-lane. The timing of this project is appropriate for a number of reasons including:

  • 2.5 mile stretch already has the base in place
  • No right of way would be needed
  • The utilities have already been relocated
  • Ramps on County 5 were completed in 2023 as part of MnDOT's regular program
Preferred Route Study from Foley to I-35
There are 17 intersections within the Highway 23 Corridor that are above the critical crash rate according to data from the StreetLight. Five of the 17 intersections are in the 53 miles from Foley to I-35. The Coalition also strives to support equity and inclusion, and provide access to safe roads across all of Minnesota. Four of the eight poorest counties in the state sit along this stretch of the Highway 23 Corridor.
Preferred Route Study from Marshall to Granite Falls
This preferred route study focuses on the 4.5 mile stretch where 4-lane ends north of Marshall to where passing lanes exist north of Green Valley. The priority project will bring us one step closer to linking a 4-lane Highway 23 to Highway 212 in Granite Falls.

2026 Construction and Planning Milestones

In addition to our long-term advocacy, several key projects are entering critical phases of construction and design this year:

  • Clara City Highway 23 and Highway 7 Intersection: Construction is scheduled for 2026 to convert this intersection into an all-way stop with LED stop signs and rumble strips to enhance safety.
  • Highway 71/23 Willmar Bypass: Following the completion of Stage 1 in 2025, construction resumes in the spring with Stage 2 and Stage 3, featuring head-to-head traffic and ramp closures. Final completion is anticipated for September 19, 2026.
  • Mora Highway 65 & Highway 23 Corridor Study: Project scoping and preliminary design work will continue throughout 2026 to prepare for future reconstruction.

With the support of our members and partners, we look forward to building on past achievements and making significant strides toward realizing the full potential of Highway 23 as a vital economic and transportation lifeline for our region.

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