A Safer, Smoother Highway for Willmar
At the Highway 23 Coalition, we believe every infrastructure improvement is an opportunity to drive safely home. That is why we are sharing details about the upcoming Highway 71/23 Willmar Bypass resurfacing project. This two-year effort will improve road conditions, enhance safety, and extend the life of this critical transportation corridor.
Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2025 and is expected to wrap up in September 2026. The project will involve resurfacing the bypass, upgrading guardrails and median cables, and improving drainage to create a smoother, safer drive for all who rely on this route.
What to Expect During Construction
The resurfacing will take place in three main stages:
- Stage 1 (2025):
The Highway 23 Willmar Bypass will be closed from County Road 5 to the southwest junction of Highway 71 and Business Highway 71. All four ramps at the bypass and County Road 5 will be closed. Vehicle traffic will be routed to Highway 71 and County Road 3, while semi-truck traffic will use Highway 71 and Highway 7. The detour will run from August 4 to November 1, 2025. - Stage 2 (2026):
The south and westbound lanes of the Highway 71/23 Willmar bypass will close, with head-to-head traffic on the opposite lanes. - Stage 3 (2026):
Similar lane closures and head-to-head traffic will continue, with additional closures for the Lakeland Drive ramps and loops.
These improvements, including replacing existing asphalt with concrete pavement, will enhance safety, improve drainage, and extend the road’s lifespan.
Join the Public Meeting to Learn More
To help the community prepare for the impacts of this project, MnDOT is hosting an informal public meeting:
Date: Thursday, July 10
Time: 4:00 to 5:30 pm
Location: MnDOT Conference Center, 2505 Transportation Rd., Willmar, MN 56201
There will be no formal presentation. Residents and businesses are invited to stop by anytime during the meeting to ask questions and learn about the project’s details and traffic impacts.
Why Safety Matters to the Highway 23 Coalition
While this project focuses on the Willmar Bypass, it reflects the broader mission of the Highway 23 Coalition: advocating for safety, mobility, and economic growth through continuous improvements along the Highway 23 corridor. The Coalition’s long-term vision is a four-lane Highway 23 that strengthens west central Minnesota’s economy and workforce.
Every improvement, big or small, brings us closer to safer, more accessible roads for residents, businesses, and visitors. By staying informed and engaged, we can all help drive safely home.