Gunflint Trail ‘Mill the Hill’ project begins second phase, expected completion early November

Throughout the summer, Cook County residents and visitors have watched the progress of the Gunflint Trail ‘Mill the Hill’ project.

In mid-September, the construction project reached a significant milestone with the setting of six 155-foot bridge beams across the Little Devils Track River.

The remainder of the work now entails pouring concrete on the bridge deck, installing barriers, and railings.

While the new bridge is a significant component of the ‘Mill the Hill’ construction project, the second phase of the project includes resurfacing the Gunflint Trail from 5th Avenue near the Gunflint Vue apartments to the ‘Four Corners’ intersection. Furthermore, the project involves realigning the intersection with Cutoff Rd and Old Ski Hill Rd, as well as resurfacing Cutoff Rd.

All of which is expected to be completed before the deer hunting season opener, on Saturday, Nov. 8.

“So between now and then, I would expect a lot of different traffic pattern changes,” said Robbie Hass, the Cook County highway engineer.

In the past couple of days, construction crews have begun grading on the shoulder of the Gunflint Trail. The Gunflint Trail will be widened to four lanes from 5th Avenue to the ‘Four Corners’.

With traffic patterns shifting to allow crews to continue grading and preparing for paving and milling operations, Hass urges motorists to “Please slow down when you’re on the Gunflint.”

He said the construction crews and highway department have observed drivers speeding through the area while work is underway. “Starting this week through the end of the month, just be very, very mindful of what’s going on there.”

WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins spoke with Cook County Highway Engineer Robbie Hass live on Daybreak on Sept. 30 to talk about the remainder of the ‘Mill the Hill’ project and other highway department updates.

Kalli Hawkins September 30, 2025