Safer accesses open along Highway 371 in east Gull Lake, Brainerd

BAXTER, Minn. –Those who travel on Highway 371 in north Brainerd will encounter three new J-turns, also known as reduced conflict intersections (RCI), at Gull Lake Dam Road (Crow Wing County Road 125), Birchdale Road (Brainerd International Raceway entrance) and Green Gables Road (County Road 126).    

In J-turns, drivers always make a right turn, followed by a U-turn. This improves safety as drivers don’t wait for a gap to cross all four lanes of Highway 371.

Mainline work is complete on this two-year project that began in late June 2022. Crews have paved work areas, extended east/west frontage roads and updated drainage. In June 2023, crews will pave the west frontage road, establish turf and complete any other tasks.

Anderson Brothers, Brainerd, is the prime contractor for the $6.8 million project that will improve safety, traffic flow and local access on Highway 371.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation asks the public to be patient as everyone learns to use the new set-up. Drivers are reminded to obey road signs and not drive over concrete medians but continue to the next open access. For more information, visit the Highway 371 Brainerd project webpage.

For real-time travel information on Highway 371, visit 511mn.org.