Multi-year reconstruction of Hwy 57 now underway

(ABC 6 News) – It’s a day that many Kasson residents have either been waiting for or dreading, the beginning of the reconstruction on highway 57.

The first phase of the project will close off highway 57 between 1st Street North and 7th Street North. In addition to the two roundabouts being added, the end goal is for better safety at intersections, making sidewalks more accessible, and better pavement options.

For Karen Engler who lives right next to the street that will be torn up, she said it’s well worth it.

"Years and years ago it should have been done. But we’re happy that it is now," said Engler. "You got to look at the future, the road will be so much better. That’s what we gotta look for, the future with nice roads, and not all these potholes that we’ve been going through for years."

The project will cost $7.9 million.

Phase one of reconstruction is expected to end in November with phase two beginning sometime next April.