Two-year look ahead
The Washington St. project will take two full construction seasons to complete from spring 2026 to fall 2027. Crews will finish any remaining work in spring-summer 2028.

2026 work segments:
- East — Pine Shores Rd.to 10th Ave. NE
- Mall — 10th Ave. E to 5th Ave. NE
- Railyard — 5th Ave. E to near Kingwood St.
2027 work segements:
- West — Baxter Dr. to 4th St. - resurface
- Bridge — 4th St. NW to east of the Mississippi River at E River Rd./N 1st St.
- Downtown — E River Rd./N 1st St. to Hwy 371B; then, Hwy 371B to near Kingwood St.
Traffic impacts, work plans
Overall, motorists will encounter changes as they navigate through Brainerd. Detours will be necessary to work beneath the road and upgrade the Mississippi River bridge.
Brainerd is open
Access to those that live, work and visit areas along the project will be open and maintained at all times. However, expect changes:
- Use of a side streets, alley or back/side entrances
- Expect gravel surfaces or temporary entrances
- Pedestrians will have sidewalk closures with detours (walk adjacent side of road)
- Plan ahead and consider alternatives for you, your family, co-workers and businesses
Off-road work to occur at anytime along this project.