D3 - Hwy 10, 29 & 71 in Wadena: 2025–2027 construction
As we approach the end of the second year of construction in Wadena, crews are making steady progress on the final pieces of the Hwy 29, Hwy 71 and Hwy 10 improvements. Here’s a quick look at what to expect over the next couple weeks.
Hwy 29 and Hwy 71
- Crews are milling and paving today and Friday.
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No parking is allowed during this work.
- Drivers should plan for lane shifts, single‑lane travel and flaggers directing traffic.
- The signal at the Hwy 29/71 intersection will operate as an all‑way flashing stop during construction.
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Week of Sept. 14: crews will install signage, activate the new traffic and pedestrian signals, and complete final striping.
- With the exception of turf establishment, this work will wrap up improvements on Hwy 29 and Hwy 71 :)
 A large milling machine grinds up and removes the top three inches of pavement on Hwy 71 to prepare for a new surface overlay.
 New pedestrian crossing signals at Aldrich Ave. and Bryant Ave. have been installed and will be activated this afternoon. These systems are designed to enhance safety for people crossing Hwy 71 by providing motorists with advance warning.
 Final signal preparations are moving along at Hwy 71 and Colfax Ave. The new signal is in red flash mode right now and will be fully operational on Mon, Sept. 14.
Hwy 10
- Construction continues along the corridor.
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Wed, Sept. 23: traffic will shift from head‑to‑head to split traffic, with westbound traffic moving to the westbound lanes and eastbound traffic to the eastbound lanes (one lane each direction on the outside lanes).
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Late September: crews will pour the raised medians at Co. Rd. 75 to complete the new J‑turns as well as finish the Co. Rd. 92 roundabout and other remaining median work throughout the project.
 Crews are hand pouring concrete around all storm sewer catch basins along Hwy 10.
 Similar to last winter season, the Hwy 10 and Harry Rich Dr. roundabout will operate with temporary pavement on the south half. This work will be completed once traffic is split after Sept. 23.
Looking ahead
With major milestones approaching this fall, including the opening of all four new lanes of Hwy 10's west segment, the project remains on track to be completed by August 2027.
When completed, travelers will enjoy a new expanded four-lane highway through Wadena with roundabouts, updated underground services and improved pedestrian access. For current impacts, more details, project maps and contacts:
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