Raising Highway 93 Above the Flood
S.M. Hentges & Sons reconstructed and elevated 3.6 miles of Highway 93 near Henderson, keeping a vital Minnesota River Valley connection open even at high water.
Explore The ProjectCommunity of Henderson & MNDOT
Henderson, MN
Roadway & 2 Bridges
July 2026
Building Infrastructure That Lasts
S.M. Hentges & Sons is proud to have served as the general contractor on this critical infrastructure improvement for the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) and the community of Henderson. The project raised approximately 3.6 miles of Highway 93 by an average of 8 feet, placing the roadway about one foot above historic high water events so the corridor stays safe and reliable during future flooding.
This transformative project included two bridges, a full reconstruction of 3.6 miles of roadway, a new floodwall, and thousands of piles. Our crews worked through challenging site conditions, major earthmoving operations, bridge construction, utility relocations, and active flood events to deliver a corridor that strengthens a vital connection for Henderson and the surrounding Minnesota River Valley.
We are honored to have partnered with MNDOT, local agencies, engineers, and stakeholders on a project that shows the lasting value of investing in resilient infrastructure, helping build safer roads, stronger communities, and infrastructure that stands the test of time.
- 3.6 miles roadway reconstruction
- Roadway raised about 8 feet
- Rush River Bridge replacement
- New overflow bridge
- New floodwall
- Thousands of piles driven
The Reel That Got the Valley Talking
Our short look at the raising and reopening of Highway 93 resonated across the community, a reminder of what resilient infrastructure means to the people who depend on it every day.
Key Highlights
Above the Flood
Roadway raised about 8 feet, roughly one foot above historic high water events.
Two New Bridges
The Rush River Bridge was replaced and a new overflow bridge was built for flood relief.
Ahead of Schedule
Delivered ahead of schedule, even through an active 2024 flood event.
For the Community
A resilient connection for Henderson and the Minnesota River Valley.
Roadway Raised
New Bridges
Piles Driven
Years Building MN
3.6 miles reconstructed · $30.6M MNDOT investment · Closed April 2024, reopened July 2026
Project Timeline
Roughly three years from closure to ribbon cutting, delivered ahead of schedule despite a historic flood during construction.
- April 15, 2024
Highway 93 Closes and Crews Mobilize
SMH mobilizes to reconstruct 3.6 miles of Highway 93 from Highway 169 to Elm Street in Henderson.
- Summer 2024
Major Earthwork and a Historic Flood
Massive earthmoving raises the grade while crews work through an active flood event.
- 2024 to 2025
Bridges, Floodwall, and Piles
Rush River Bridge replacement, a new overflow bridge, a new floodwall, and thousands of piles.
- July 21, 2026
Ribbon Cutting and Reopening
MNDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger and the community celebrate the reopening.
Project Gallery
Featured Media
After Nearly Three Years, Henderson Celebrates Reopening of Highway 93
Minnesota Public Radio covers the reopening celebration and what it means for the residents of Henderson and Sibley County.
Read on MPR NewsHighway 93 Open After Three Years of Construction
“The closure of Highway 93 demanded incredible patience, adaptability, and resilience from our residents.”
Amy Hardel, Henderson City Councilor
Highway 93 Project FAQ
Who built the Highway 93 project near Henderson, MN?
S.M. Hentges & Sons served as the general contractor for the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) and the community of Henderson, leading the reconstruction and raising of Highway 93.
How much did the Highway 93 project cost?
The project was an approximately $30.6 million investment, funded largely through state bonding.
How high was Highway 93 raised?
Crews raised the roadway an average of about 8 feet, placing it roughly one foot above historic high water events so the corridor stays open during future flooding.
How long is the reconstructed section of Highway 93?
S.M. Hentges & Sons reconstructed 3.6 miles of Highway 93, from Highway 169 to Elm Street in Henderson, including two bridges and a new floodwall.
When did Highway 93 reopen?
Highway 93 reopened on July 21, 2026, after closing on April 15, 2024. The project was completed ahead of schedule despite a historic flood during construction.
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