News Release

WILLMAR, Minn. - The Minnesota Department of Transportation announced today that the junction of Highways 7 and 23 at Clara City is closed to through traffic related to the Highway 7 construction project. Detour barricades were in place at 10:00 a.m. today (May 6).

Highway 7 motorists will be detoured through the Truck Stop parking area, Highway 23 and 100th Ave. Highway 23 motorists will be detoured to Main St. in Clara City, Highway 7 and through the Truck Stop parking area. (See attached map). Each detour route adds approximately 1 mile.

According to Mn/DOT project supervisor Jim Christensen, the project consists of a concrete overlay starting just east of the Highway 7 and 23 junction to 100th Ave. west of Clara City. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be complete mid-summer.

Mn/DOT reminds motorists to slow down in work zones and never enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones.

For statewide up-to-date traveler information, motorists can dial 511 on a wireless telephone or 800-542-0220. At this time, there is no extra charge for the 511 service outside of normal airtime or any roaming charges for wireless phone users. Traveler information and other transportation related information is also available on the Mn/DOT web site at www.dot.state.mn.us.