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   Construction crews continue making progress on the Highway 371 reconstruction project in Hackensack, with key milestones expected this week and next.

   Gravel and dirt work has been completed along the temporary widening on Highway 371 north of Cass County Road 5. Similar work is wrapping up along County Road 5. Paving on both sections is scheduled for May 14, weather permitting. Once paving is complete, crews will install detour signs and striping.

A detour route for trucks bypassing the Hwy 371 construction zone in Hackensack will use County Roads 5, 45 and 117, as indicated in green. The work zone includes a roundabout installation and culvert replacement within the city limits.

   If weather conditions cooperate, a detour is expected to go into effect Thursday or Friday. After the detour is in place, the contractor plans to begin storm sewer and grading work at the future roundabout.

Construction along Hwy 371 in Hackensack will proceed in four stages, as shown in this project map from MnDOT. The project is expected to be completed by mid-October, weather permitting.

   Next week, crews will continue storm sewer and grading operations and begin installing street lighting around May 21. City watermain work near the roundabout is expected to start around May 22. The detour and a local bypass using 1st Street will remain in place during this phase.

   The urban reconstruction project includes building a roundabout at the intersection of Highway 371 and County Road 5, as well as reconstructing and paving the highway, upgrading sidewalks, improving utilities, and replacing a box culvert near Barthelemy Avenue.

   Once complete, the rebuilt corridor will feature safer roads and intersections, improved drainage and pedestrian access, and a more durable driving surface. The project is expected to be finished by mid-October, weather permitting.

   For more information and project maps, visit mndot.gov/d2/projects/hwy371-hackensack.

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