(KNSI) – Drivers will no longer need to navigate a nuisance detour between Paynesville and Hawick.
Highway 23 between the two communities is open to motorists again. The area was closed in the spring for the South Gap Project. Crews are expanding the road from two to four lanes between Paynesville and New London.
Work continues on the pipework and platform at Long Lake. A pedestrian underpass installation to connect the lake’s north side to the trail has started. The Glacial Ridge Trail parking lot near Hawick is now open.
Drivers will still see construction crews working along the highway until the project is suspended over the winter. They will finish the job in 2024.
The South Gap Project is part of a plan to connect Willmar to Interstate 94 in St. Cloud with a four-lane highway. All but 16 miles of the 53-mile stretch will be four lanes when the work is done.
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