Highway 25 project keeps Buffalo-area motorists on changing detours through fall

A new roundabout has changed the detour for the Highway 25 reconstruction project between Buffalo and Monticello, sending motorists along a revised route beginning June 2. Through traffic remains closed, while local access is being maintained during the work.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation and Wright County are continuing the $11.4 million project. Highway 25 is expected to remain closed to through traffic until late October 2026, although the official schedule and traffic conditions may change.

What changed on June 2

The detour configuration changed after the new roundabout opened at County State Aid Highway 37. The Highway 25 closure extends north from John Ause Memorial Drive to County Road 106, also identified as 85th Street NE.

From the Buffalo area, the revised detour uses Highway 55 in Buffalo, CSAH 12, CSAH 37 NE, County Road 117 and School Boulevard in Monticello. The route is intended for through traffic while people who live, work or visit within the work zone retain local access.

Motorists should still plan for additional travel time and temporary hard closures as construction continues. The project notice does not provide an exact delay estimate, and conditions can change as work advances.

What the project is intended to deliver

When lanes reopen, the project is intended to improve safety, drainage and ride quality along the corridor. The $11.4 million figure is an estimated project cost, not a reported final cost.

For Buffalo residents, workers, businesses and visitors, the immediate effect is a longer and changing route for trips between Buffalo and Monticello. Local access remains open, but drivers using Highway 25 as a through route will continue to use the posted detour until the closure ends.

Separate County Highway 113 closure

A separate notice from the City of Buffalo also reports a County Highway 113 closure in Buffalo Township at State Highway 25. That closure began July 7, 2026, with local traffic access maintained and other motorists directed to posted detours. It is expected to continue through the end of August.

The County Highway 113 work is separate from the broader Highway 25 reconstruction project. Drivers should follow posted signs and check for changing conditions when planning trips through the area.