The Highway 23 Coalition is committed to improving the Highway 23 Corridor to enhance safety, mobility, and economic growth. As part of this effort, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has announced several key construction projects that will help improve traffic flow, reduce accidents, and provide safer access along Highway 23. These projects align with the Coalition’s long-term goal of establishing a continuous four-lane highway from I-90 to I-35. Here’s a look at the major Highway 23 projects set for 2025:
Hwy 23 – Waite Park
MnDOT is planning to improve intersection access and safety at Hwy 23 and Bel Clare Dr. in Waite Park with a J-turn design. The J-turn will help reduce the risk of dangerous broadside and right-angle crashes by directing traffic to make safer U-turns instead of crossing directly over multiple lanes.
Project Timeline:
- Develop Project: In progress
- Public Meeting: January 14, 2025
- Final Design: Winter 2025 – Fall 2026
- Right-of-Way Acquisition: 2025–2026
- Construction: Scheduled for 2027
Project Highlights:
- Install a J-turn at Bel Clare Dr.
- Close center crossover to simplify traffic flow
- Add pedestrian crossings in the median
- Improve overall intersection safety
Why It Matters:
A five-year analysis showed nine crashes at this intersection, including six right-angle crashes, two head-on crashes, and one broadside crash. The J-turn design aims to reduce these risks by improving how traffic navigates the intersection.
Hwy 23 – Green Valley Bridges
MnDOT will resurface two bridges on Hwy 23, north of Marshall, crossing the Redwood River and Threemile Creek near Green Valley. Construction begins May 12, 2025 and is expected to be completed by September 1, 2025.
Project Highlights:
- Resurface bridge decks
- Replace approach panels and guardrails
- Improve driving surface and extend bridge lifespan
Traffic Impact:
- A detour will be in place for approximately one month
- The project will enhance long-term safety and reduce maintenance needs while extending the lifespan of the bridges.
Hwy 23 – Milaca
MnDOT will begin developing plans to reconstruct and improve two miles of Hwy 23 from the Rum River Bridge to Mille Lacs Co. Rd. 2 (105th Ave.) in Milaca. The project includes road reconstruction, new roundabouts, and improved pedestrian access. Construction is scheduled for 2027–2028, but the project development phase starts in 2025.
Project Timeline:
- Corridor Study: Completed (2020–2021)
- Project Development: 2023–2026
- Construction: 2027–2028
Project Highlights:
- Replace signalized intersections with roundabouts at Central Ave. and First St. E
- Add a new multi-use trail along the north side of the project corridor
- Improve pedestrian safety and traffic flow
Hwy 23 – Mora
MnDOT is planning a multi-phase improvement project on Hwy 23 through Mora to enhance traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and infrastructure. While construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, planning and design phases will advance in 2025.
Project Timeline:
- Project Development: In progress
- Final Design: Begins in 2025
- Construction: Scheduled for 2027
Project Highlights:
- Improve road surface and drainage
- Enhance pedestrian crossings and sidewalks
- Upgrade traffic signals and signage
This project will improve accessibility and reduce traffic bottlenecks in Mora, supporting both local and through-traffic.
Hwy 23 – Raymond and Svea
MnDOT will construct left-turn lanes at two intersections to improve traffic flow and safety. Construction begins April 28, 2025 and is expected to be completed by July 18, 2025.
Project Highlights:
- Raymond: Construct left-turn lane on Hwy 23 at CR 1, northeast of Raymond
- Svea: Construct left-turn lane at the intersection of Hwy 71 and CR 3
- Improve intersection safety and reduce delays
Traffic Impact:
- Detours will be in place during construction
- Improved turning lanes will increase safety for vehicles and pedestrians
Hwy 23 – Mission Creek (2029)
MnDOT will replace an aging bridge and realign the highway to improve safety and traffic flow.
Project Highlights:
- Replace old bridge
- Realign the highway for smoother traffic flow
Why It Matters:
- Addresses structural issues with the existing bridge
- Reduces flooding risk and improves traffic efficiency
Hwy 23 – New London (2028-2029)
A new interchange at Hwy 23 and Hwy 9 in New London will enhance safety and traffic flow at one of the corridor’s busiest intersections.
Project Highlights:
- Construct a new interchange
- Realign County Road 40 to improve traffic movement
Why It Matters:
- Improves access for local businesses and commuters
- Reduces congestion and enhances travel efficiency
Hwy 23 – Pipestone to Russell
MnDOT began resurfacing Hwy 23 from Pipestone to Russell in June 2024 and completed the main work in November 2024. However, crews will return in Spring 2025 to finish final cleanup and remaining punch list items.
Project Highlights:
- Resurfaced Hwy 23 from Pipestone to Russell
- Replaced culvert near Florence
- Replaced bridge deck east of the intersection of Hwy 23 and Hwy 75 in Pipestone
- Lined culverts along the corridor to improve drainage
Traffic Impact:
- Hwy 23 was reduced to one lane from August 8 to September 20, 2024
- Flagging and pilot cars were used to direct traffic
- The Florence culvert detour and Pipestone bridge detour have been lifted
Benefits:
- Smoother driving surface
- Improved drainage and road longevity
- Enhanced safety at key intersections
Hwy 23 – Rockville (2027)
A J-turn will be installed at Hwy 23 and Stearns Co. Rd. 8 in Rockville to reduce crashes and simplify navigation.
Project Highlights:
- Install a J-turn at Co. Rd. 8
- Close the center crossover
- Add pedestrian crossings in the median
Why It Matters:
- Reduces crash risk, especially from left-turn and T-bone collisions
- Improves traffic flow and pedestrian safety
Investing in a Safer, More Connected Highway 23 Corridor
The 2025 construction season marks a significant step in improving Highway 23’s infrastructure and ensuring a safer, more efficient transportation route. The Highway 23 Coalition remains committed to advocating for these improvements and working toward a continuous four-lane highway from I-90 to I-35.
Want to support the future of Highway 23?
Join the Coalition and help drive progress toward a safer, more connected corridor.