Annual races expected to draw more than 100,000, local roads closed due to construction
BAXTER, Minn. – Motorists should plan for heavy traffic volumes and congestion on Highway 371 and other Brainerd Lakes Area roads Thursday, Aug. 16, through Sunday, Aug. 19.
With some local roads closed for construction, and more than 100,000 visitors expected to attend the 37th annual Lucas Oil National Hot Rod Association Nationals race at the Brainerd International Raceway, more congestion is expected in Brainerd and Baxter than during past NHRA Nationals race weeks.
Motorists planning to travel in the Brainerd/Baxter area should be patient, expect delays, consider staggering their travel times and watch for slow traffic on Highway 371 and other area roadways. Recurring congestion and occasional stop-and-go traffic is expected on Highway 371 between Brainerd and Nisswa.
Motorists are advised to take alternative routes and avoid the area, if possible.
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