PAYNESVILLE --Motorists traveling Monday on state Highway 23 in Paynesville will encounter two traffic switches.
As part of the Highway 23/Paynesville bypass project, the newly constructed Veteran's Drive is expected to open.
Traffic on the city street will travel over the new Veteran's Drive Bridge and connect to Cemetery Road, approximately one-half mile west of Paynesville.
West Main Street will permanently close at Liberty Street and will no longer connect to Cemetery Road. Motorists can access Cemetery Road from Veterans Drive. The 7.5-mile bypass project is located north of Paynesville, extending from Kandiyohi County Road 6 to 263rd Avenue. The project includes grading, construction of eight bridges, surfacing and lighting. Work began in April. Completion is expected in August 2012.
The project will improve mobility and safety for motorists traveling along the Highway 23 corridor and allows Highway 23 to remain an important connection between Willmar and St. Cloud.
