All lanes open; Highway 169 project in Garrison complete
BAXTER, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Transportation has completed the five‑mile, $12.4 million Highway 169 reconstruction project between Crow Wing County Road 26 and Pike Avenue in Garrison. All lanes and sidewalks are now open to travelers.
Improvement highlights
- Reconstructed Highway 169 through Garrison
- Built a new single-lane, four-leg roundabout at Highway 169, Highway 18 and Monroe Street
- Installed new storm sewer, lighting and upgraded sidewalk/trail connections
- Resurfaced Highway 169 north and south of Garrison
- Reconfigured turn lanes at County Road 26
- Repaired or replaced drainage structures
- Preserved the rustic style of the historic St. Alban’s Bay culvert, built in 1938-1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps
- Upgraded guardrail, installed pavement markings and rumble/mumble strips
MnDOT appreciates the community’s patience throughout this six-month project, including area detours. Crews will complete any remaining off-road work through early November.
Travelers will now experience smoother pavement, modern infrastructure, and improved safety and traffic flow on this key Highway 169 corridor along the west shore of Mille Lacs Lake.
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