The Highway 23 Coalition is steadfast in its mission to advocate for the expansion of a 4-lane highway from I-90 to I-35. Our goal is clear: to enhance safety, mobility, and economic growth by transforming this vital transportation route.
Current Progress and the Path Ahead
2024 marked a significant year for our mission, with notable advancements in the expansion of the Highway 23 corridor. Currently, approximately 82 miles of the 276-mile corridor are designated as 4-lane, representing about 30% of the route. Key sections include:
- 9 miles between Paynesville and Richmond
- 7 miles between New London and Paynesville
- 9 miles near Marshall
- 1 mile near Green Valley
- 3 miles near Granite Falls
- 45 miles between Willmar and Waite Park
- 8 miles from St. Cloud to Foley
While progress is evident, much work remains to achieve a fully connected 4-lane highway from I-90 in the southwest to I-35 in the northeast.
2024 Priority Projects
Funding requests have been submitted to support critical projects for 2024. Efforts are also underway to address rising costs through additional funding sources and local match options. These priority projects include:
- 4-Lane Extension SW of Willmar (Highway 71 to Kandiyohi County Road 5)
- Preferred Route Studies: Ongoing studies from Foley to Mora and Marshall to Green Valley will determine the best paths for future 4-lane expansions.
Key Achievements in 2024
- 4-Lane Extension SW of Willmar (Highway 71 to Kandiyohi County Road 5): Funding requests have been submitted, and additional sources and local match options are being explored to address rising costs.
- Preferred Route Studies: Funding requests for studies from Foley to Mora and Marshall to Green Valley have been submitted, with additional resources under consideration.
- South Gap Completion: The New London to Paynesville section is now a completed 4-lane highway.
- Pipestone to Russell Highway Improvement: Began in June 2024, focusing on smoother road surfaces and improved drainage, with completion expected by Spring 2025.
- Milaca to Ogilvie Highway Improvement: Road enhancements, improved drainage, and safety upgrades were completed in September 2024.
- New London Quadrant Interchange: Secured funding for future construction, scheduled to begin in 2028.
- St. Cloud Highway 23 and Highway 10 Interchange: Construction completed in November 2024, enhancing safety and road conditions.
- Mora Highway 65 & Highway 23 Corridor Study: Phases one and two are complete, with implementation plans shared in 2024. Phase four begins in 2025, with construction anticipated by 2030.
- Milaca Highway Improvement: This two-mile safety and road condition project is in development, with construction planned for 2027.
- Clara City Highway 23 and Highway 7 Intersection: An all-way stop conversion project, funded in 2024, is scheduled for construction in 2026.
- Granite Falls Highway 23 and Highway 67 (formerly Highway 274): Secured funding in 2024 for realignment to improve sight lines, with construction planned for 2027.
Looking Ahead: 2025 Priority Projects
There is more work to be done to achieve our vision of a 4-lane Highway 23. The Coalition’s priorities for 2025 include:
- 4-Lane Extension SW of Willmar: From Highway 71 to Kandiyohi County Road 5.
- Preferred Route Study: Identifying the best path for a 4-lane expansion between Foley and Mora.
- Preferred Route Study: Evaluating the route for a 4-lane extension from Marshall to Granite Falls.
Building a Better Future
The Highway 23 Coalition remains committed to transforming this essential corridor into a 4-lane highway that benefits all Minnesotans. Together, we’re building a safer, more connected future for our communities and economy. Thank you for your continued support in driving this mission forward!