Highway 67 southeast of Granite Falls will remain closed into 2020

WILLMAR — State Highway 67 southeast of Granite Falls will remain closed into 2020 as the Minnesota Department of Transportation continues to monitor the underground movement that has shifted a portion of the highway.

Highway 67 has been closed between the Upper Sioux Agency State Park entrance and 600 ^th Street, just west of the Yellow Medicine River Bridge, since April 4 . Portions of the roadway have shifted, causing several significant drops in the driving lane. MnDOT has barricades in place and motorists are restricted from using the roadway at this location.

Since the closure, MnDOT has implemented an investigation plan and has been using instrumentation to measure the depth of movement below ground. Groundwater depth and saturation levels are also being monitored. The embankment has moved at a consistent rate, approximately one inch per day at the main pavement crack, according to a news release from MnDOT. There is significant movement at 50 feet beneath the road surface.

Additional monitoring and slope stability modeling is needed before MnDOT can consider slope stabilization options and a feasibility study for reopening the road. Therefore, this segment of Highway 67 will remain closed into 2020.

Traffic will continue to be routed on state Highway 23, state Highway 274, and County Road 18 until further notice.

Find photos, more information and updates about the Highway 67 road closure at www.mndot.gov/d8/projects/hwy67statepark .

When a road is closed, it is illegal to travel in that area. MnDOT said motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or serve 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other expenses and penalties will apply.