Overview
Reconstruction of a segment of the Cuyuna Lakes State Trail as part of the MnDOT Highway 210/Washington Street reconstruction project. Project extends from Pine Shores Road in northeast Brainerd to Baxter Drive in Baxter, including trail reconstruction, Mississippi River Bridge, downtown and rail yard road segments.
Current Status
Status: Construction scheduled April 2026 through 2027
Project is part of the broader MnDOT Highway 210 reconstruction, which will rebuild the road corridor and includes trail reconstruction as a component.
Timeline
- April 2026: Construction begins (eastern segment first)
- 2026: Eastern segment construction
- 2027: Western segment construction (Baxter Drive moving east)
- Duration: Multi-year construction effort
Project Scope
Trail component: Reconstruction of Cuyuna Lakes State Trail segment
Related infrastructure:
- Mississippi River Bridge reconstruction
- Downtown road segments
- Rail yard road segments
Construction approach: Eastern segment construction first (from Pine Shores Road area), continuing west through at least Gillis/13th Street intersection. Western segment (Baxter Drive) constructed in 2027.
Impact
During construction: Trail detours likely in effect for Cuyuna Lakes State Trail users traveling between Brainerd and Baxter.
After completion: Improved trail surface and alignment as part of updated Highway 210 corridor.
Importance
The Cuyuna Lakes State Trail is a key regional trail connection linking multiple communities and recreational areas. Reconstruction ensures continued safe use and integrates with modernized Highway 210 infrastructure.
Monitoring
Tracking items:
- April 2026 construction start confirmation
- Trail detour routes and signage
- Construction progress and segment completion
- Trail reopening dates by segment
- MnDOT project updates
External Sources
- MnDOT Brainerd Project Page — Highway 210 reconstruction information
- Brainerd Dispatch — Local news coverage of construction progress
- Minnesota DNR State Trails — Cuyuna Lakes State Trail information