CSAH 15 Reconstruction - 2027

CSAH 15 Reconstruction Project Information

Current Roadway:

The current layout of CSAH 15 from the South County Line to CSAH 18 spans just under 4 miles, was constructed in 1959 and surfaced with its first lift of bituminous "Road Mix" in 1960. The roadway had 11' driving lanes and accommodated 3' aggregate shoulders. Inslopes of 1:3 or steeper are common throughout the roadway corridor.

The timber box culvert (6' wide by 7.5' height) connecting West and Middle Jefferson Lakes was already in-place and extended as part of the 1959 project.

Since its construction in 1959, the roadway has received various bituminous overlays and has been reshouldered several times. These operations have caused the driving lanes and shoulder widths to vary slightly, the general layout remains the same. The original bituminous surfacing placed in 1960 is still on the roadway since covered by several resurfacing projects, and the wooden box culvert connecting the lakes is still in place.

Why Reconstruct Now?

  • Resurfacing Need: The existing bituminous surface has far exceeded its expected design life and needs to be addressed
  • Safety: A narrow road surface, steep inslopes, inadequate clear zones, and sight line issues at various locations present safety issues throughout the corridor.
  • Opportunity: Great River Energy is scheduled to reconstruct their electric transmission line that parallels the corridor during this time frame. The opportunity to partner with them and coordinate the reconstruction of the roadway along with their project presents the opportunity to save taxpayer dollars and limit the need for multiple different projects impacting residents.
  • Timber Box Culvert Condition: Installed over 6 decades ago, the timber structure connecting Middle and West Jefferson Lakes has reached a state of deterioration requiring replacement.

Tentative Project Timeline:

  • February 2026: Open House #1
  • January 2026 - December 2026: Final Design and Construction Documents
  • Winter 2026/2027: Construction Activity of Tree Removal
  • Spring 2027: Roadway Closure and Construction 

What is planned to be constructed?

The goal is to provide a roadway that meets current State Aid Standards, improving safety and driving conditions throughout the corridor. Planned improvements include:

  • 12' Driving Lanes
  • 6' Shoulders
  • Inslopes 1:4 or flatter
  • 42' clear zone from the center of the roadway
  • Turn lanes at various intersections throughout the corridor
  • Improved Lake Connectivity

Project Documents:

Contact Information:

Le Sueur County Staff:

Design Consultant: Bolton & Menk