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Kandiyohi County OKs MOU with MnDOT to advance New London interchange project
Summary
County commissioners approved a nonbinding memorandum of understanding with MnDOT and affirmed a $2.5 million local commitment as the agency finalizes plans for the New London interchange, slated for letting in March 2027 and roughly two years of construction.
KANDIYOHI COUNTY, Minn. — Kandiyohi County commissioners voted Dec. 2 to sign a nonbinding memorandum of understanding with the Minnesota Department of Transportation to advance the New London interchange project that will realign County Road 40, add a bridge over Highway 23 and install a roundabout to connect Highway 9 and the new CR 40.
Dave Nylund, MnDOT project manager for District 8, told the board that designs are at about the 60% stage and that the agency plans to let the project on March 24, 2027, with an anticipated two years of construction. MnDOT emphasized safety and mobility benefits: the bridge and access changes aim to reduce right‑angle (T‑bone) crashes, lengthen acceleration lanes to improve merging, and provide a separated pedestrian and bicycle connection linking the Glacier Lakes Trail and County Road 40 bike shoulders.
County staff and the board described local commitments needed to finalize plans. County Administrator Melvin (first referenced at the meeting) said the county’s local‑option sales tax commitment remains $2.5 million and recommended locking in that pledge in a nonbinding MOU so state and local partners can finalize agreements and plans. Commissioners noted the MOU is nonbinding but provides clarity for right‑of‑way work and plan completion.
Nylund said the right‑of‑way outreach has begun; MnDOT is contacting landowners and has not yet made purchase offers. He said some minor early vegetation/tree removal may occur within about a year and that project materials, including an animation, will be posted on MnDOT’s website in short order.
Commissioners asked about detours and staging; Nylund said there will be no full detour for Highway 9 or Highway 23 but that County Road 40 would be detoured in the work area and that the project will build a frontage road and slip roads to maintain local access. The board approved the MOU by voice vote.
What happens next: MnDOT will continue design to the 60% plan set, progress right‑of‑way discussions with landowners, publish public materials and prepare for the March 2027 letting. The county’s MOU clarifies its local funding and logistical commitments but does not obligate expenditure beyond those stated terms.
