BAXTER, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation announced that Highway 71 in Wadena will reopen to all travelers by Tuesday evening, Oct. 7, as the detour is lifted.
This milestone marks the completion of major improvements on Highway 71 north of Highway 10 that began in July. The work included reconstruction and resurfacing to improve safety, drainage and pedestrian access.
Highway 71 project highlights:
- Birch Avenue North to Elm Avenue North
- Reconstructed the roadway and replaced underground storm sewer, sanitary sewer and water main
- Removed the pedestrian tunnel near the former hospital
- Added or updated sidewalks and pedestrian ramps
- Elm Avenue North to half-mile north of Alfred Street
- Resurfaced roadway and upgraded underground drainage
- Added a center left-turn lane to north of Alfred Street
- Added new sidewalk and trail connections extending to Alfred Street
Although Highway 71 will be open, roadwork on Highway 10 will continue through October. Motorists can expect an active work zone with one lane open each way between Highway 71 and 620th Street. Shoulder closures and slow-moving trucks and construction equipment may be present near Oink Joint Road as off-road work continues on the east end of the project. Please use caution, slow down and be on the lookout for workers and equipment.
When complete in August 2027, travelers will benefit from a smoother, stronger and expanded four-lane highway; improved safety, access and traffic flow through Wadena; and updated underground infrastructure and city utilities.
For more Wadena construction information, future detour maps and to sign up for email updates, visit the project webpage: www.mndot.gov/d3/projects/wadena.
For current road conditions and detours on Minnesota highways, visit 511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.