Hwy 23 North Gap

About this project

MnDOT will reconstruct and expand nine miles of Hwy 23 from two to four lanes between Stearns CR 33 in Paynesville and Hwy 22/Grant Ave SW in Richmond.

Summary of Work

• Reconstruct and expand to four lanes (two lanes in each direction)
• Replace pipe under CR 43
• Realign and improve access to/from the following Hwy 23 intersections
  • 263rd Ave
  • CR 12
  • CR 43
  • CR 114
• Realign the highway curvature near Roscoe to improve sight distances
• Reconstruct one mile of Glacial Lakes State Trail near Richmond

Traffic impacts

Three detours will be required to complete this project. Access will be open to those who live, work or visit homes and businesses along Hwy 23; however, expect changes and use of alternate entrances. Hwy 23 will be a busy work zone. Watch for construction signs, lane closures, gravel surfaces, flaggers with use of pilot car, road crews and heavy equipment. Detours are as follow.

• Hwy 23 North Gap main detour from Paynesville to Richmond (2022-2023). Detour in place from mid-May through early November 2022, and from May through November 2023. Hwy 23 is closed from CR 33 in Paynesville to CR 12/(Maine St/CR 43) in Richmond. Detour uses CR 33 Paynesville, CR 32, and CR 12/(Maine St) Richmond.
• CR 43 Richmond detour (June 6 through Aug. 31, 2022). This closure has been completed.
• CR 12 detour (Maine St) near Richmond (2 weeks in 2023, date to be determined).

Project Update

Nov. 4, 2022

• Hwy 23 is open between Paynesville (CR 33) and Richmond (CR 12) for the winter.
• Travel is two-lane, head-to-head traffic.
• Construction is suspended until next spring when road restrictions are lifted.

Background

Hwy 23 is an important interregional corridor that is a key artery for the economy in the region. It provides the primary east-west route connecting Willmar to Interstate 94 and beyond. The segment of Hwy 23 between Willmar and Interstate 94 is about 53 miles. All but 16 miles are a four-lane roadway.

Project timeline