Highway 61 Through Hastings Is Getting a Major Rebuild in 2028
TLDR
MnDOT is reconstructing Highway 61 through Hastings, with the bulk of work in 2028.
The project will rebuild the road from 4th Street to 36th Street with concrete pavement.
New full-size roundabouts are planned at Highway 316 and 36th Street.
The chamber is planning a "choose local" campaign to support businesses during construction.
Mayor Fasbender called the Highway 61 reconstruction a "transformation investment" at the State of the Community Luncheon. It's one of the biggest infrastructure projects Hastings will see in years — and it's going to reshape how people move through town.
What's Being Done
The Minnesota Department of Transportation is partnering with the city on a full reconstruction of Highway 61 from 4th Street to 36th Street. This isn't a simple repaving job. The road's sub-structure has reached the end of its useful life, and the signal systems need to be modernized.
Here's what the project includes, based on MnDOT's design plans:
New concrete pavement throughout the corridor. Full-size roundabouts at Highway 316 and 36th Street. New 6-foot sidewalks and pedestrian ramps on both sides. An 8-foot trail from Highway 316 to 36th Street. Updated signal systems and intersection improvements. Replacement of the Todd Field retaining wall.
Timeline
The bulk of construction is scheduled for 2028, with minor preliminary work possibly starting in late 2027. The project is estimated at $30 to $40 million, and MnDOT has secured about two-thirds of the needed funding so far.
A separate section — Highway 316 to 36th Street — may be handled as its own project anticipated in 2029.
Impact on Businesses
This is the part that has everyone's attention. Highway 61 is the main commercial corridor through Hastings. Construction will unavoidably affect traffic patterns, access to businesses, and the overall flow of the downtown area.
The mayor highlighted the partnership between the city, the chamber, and MnDOT to keep businesses informed. Chamber President Christy Bars has been working with a MnDOT business group specifically to address business concerns during construction.
During the panel discussion, City Administrator Dan Wietecha noted the chamber is planning a "choose local" campaign to encourage residents to keep shopping and dining in Hastings even when construction makes it less convenient.
County Road 42 is also getting reconstructed in 2027 — timed to be completed before Highway 61 work ramps up. That project will improve pedestrian safety and include reconstruction of a section of the Mississippi River Greenway trail.
Other Infrastructure Updates
The mayor also mentioned several completed projects:
Highway 55 got updated traffic signals and ADA curbing for pedestrian safety. The Hastings Civic Arena received solar panels and energy-efficient system upgrades. City Hall renovations wrapped up on the 1871 building — originally built as the Dakota County Courthouse.
The Bottom Line
If you drive through Hastings regularly, 2028 is going to test your patience. But this project has been studied for years, and the road genuinely needs it. The sub-structure is failing, intersections need safety upgrades, and the pedestrian infrastructure is overdue.
Stay connected with MnDOT's project page for design updates and public meeting schedules. And when construction starts, make a point to keep supporting Hastings businesses — they're going to need it.
FAQ
When does construction start on Highway 61?
Minor work could begin in late 2027. The major reconstruction is scheduled for 2028.
Will Highway 61 be closed during construction?
Full details on traffic management haven't been released yet, but MnDOT typically maintains access during construction. Expect lane restrictions, detours, and reduced speeds.
What are the roundabouts about?
Two new full-size roundabouts are planned at Highway 316 and 36th Street. They're designed to improve traffic flow and reduce crashes.
How much does this cost?
The project is estimated at $30 to $40 million. MnDOT has secured roughly two-thirds of the funding.
Is County Road 42 construction related?
Sort of. The CR 42 project is scheduled for 2027, timed to wrap up before Highway 61 work begins so the city isn't dealing with two major road projects at once.
