The Minnesota Department of Transportation is moving forward with a major reconstruction effort on Highway 210 in Brainerd, with officials inviting the public to learn more at an upcoming open house on March 31.
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The multi-year infrastructure project will span 2026 and 2027, targeting a key corridor between Baxter Drive and Pine Shores Road. The initiative aims to modernize roadway conditions, improve traffic flow and enhance safety for both drivers and pedestrians.
State transportation officials are hosting an open house in Brainerd to provide residents, business owners and stakeholders with detailed insights into the upcoming construction phases.
The event will take place at the Crow Wing County Land Services Building, offering two sessions—noon to 2 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m.—to accommodate community participation. Attendees will have the opportunity to review project maps, timelines and planned detours, as well as ask questions directly to project staff.
This early engagement reflects MnDOT’s effort to prepare the community for disruptions and ensure transparency as construction begins.
The project includes a comprehensive overhaul of the Highway 210 corridor, going beyond simple resurfacing. Planned upgrades feature improvements to curbs, gutters, medians and storm sewer systems, along with modernized traffic signals.
In addition, certain signalized intersections—specifically at Mill Avenue and Fourth Avenue—will be removed and replaced with redesigned traffic solutions, including two new roundabouts at Highway 210 and Mill Avenue.
The project also includes significant underground work, with city utilities set to be replaced alongside roadway improvements to reduce the need for future disruptions.
Construction will be executed in stages over two years to minimize traffic impacts while maintaining progress.
In 2026, crews will focus on the eastern portions of the corridor, including areas near the mall and railyard. These phases will involve detours that shift as work progresses across segments.
By 2027, construction will move into downtown Brainerd, as well as bridge and western segments of the project. This phased approach allows MnDOT to address complex infrastructure needs while maintaining access for residents and businesses.
Beyond roadway upgrades, the project emphasizes improved accessibility and connectivity. Sidewalks and roadway approaches will be enhanced, and a new connection to the Cuyuna Lakes Trail will be added, supporting pedestrian and recreational use.
Upgrades will also extend to the Mississippi River bridge, ensuring long-term structural reliability and improved travel conditions.
The Highway 210 reconstruction represents a significant investment in Brainerd’s transportation infrastructure, with long-term benefits including reduced congestion, improved safety and enhanced economic activity along the corridor.
Projects like this also highlight the growing trend of integrating multimodal transportation solutions—combining vehicle, pedestrian and recreational access into a single design strategy.
As construction approaches, community engagement will play a key role in minimizing disruption and ensuring that local needs are addressed throughout the project lifecycle.
Originally reported by KAXE.
