The path is now literally clear for the new four-lane Hwy 371 in Nisswa, Pequot Lakes and Jenkins as crews have completed clearing the future road's right of way, the Minnesota Department of Transportation said in a release.
The process left behind a clear view of the future road's route, along with huge piles of woodchips. Those woodchips-around 50,000 cubic yards worth, or 5,000 dump truck's worth, or enough to cover 30 acres in a foot of woodchips-will not go to waste. They will all be used as part of the project, MnDOT said.
Some of the woodchips will be used for erosion control to protect sensitive environmental areas, and some will be used to create a platform for equipment needed to build lanes and the new box culvert at Cullen Brook. None of the woodchips are available for purchase or private use off of the project site, MnDOT said.
The project's first detour will begin April 11 when County Rd 107/Wilderness Road closes at Hwy 371. The short detour will direct motorists to the north junction of County Road 107/Hwy 371, about two miles north of County Rd 107/Wilderness Road.
MnDOT will host a celebration and information session April 15 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Cole Memorial Building, 4285 Tower Square in Pequot Lakes.
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Attendees can view informational displays, take home project information and meet project staff. A short presentation is scheduled for 5:30 p.m, and a groundbreaking ceremony will precede the open house.
