BAXTER — The city of Baxter is facing potential costs of approximately $4,090,030 related to the proposed Highway 371 overpass project. This figure was detailed in a memo from city staff to the mayor and City Council dated January 14, 2024. Among these costs, the city could be responsible for assessing around $1.6 million to fund various infrastructure improvements.
The estimated costs associated with the project include nearly $3 million for streets, $123,790 for storm sewer systems, $815,660 for water infrastructure, and $90,000 for sanitary sewer modifications. Additionally, the construction of dual left turn lanes at the intersection of Glory Road and College Road could add $1.9 million to the budget, with the city and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) each expected to contribute $950,000.
According to the memo, city staff emphasized that “the projects are feasible and constructable.” They also noted that potential funding sources are available that would not negatively impact Baxter taxpayers.
On January 20, 2024, the City Council is set to vote on municipal consent for the larger $58 million interchange project involving Highway 371 and Highway 210. MnDOT has indicated a preference for a design that features a buttonhook configuration with five new roundabouts. This plan includes raising Highway 371 to create an overpass above the rail line and Highway 210.
Funding Sources and Project Necessities
The city has identified various funding sources to help cover its share of the costs. These include $3,060,580 in state aid, with the possibility of advancing funds over a period of five years. Additional sources include $815,660 from Water Enterprise Funds, $90,000 from Sewer Enterprise Funds, and $123,790 from the Stormwater Enterprise Fund. The city also anticipates approximately $1 million in special assessments in the Fairview Road extension area.
Baxter is also pursuing a 20-year extension of its local option sales tax, which must receive both state and local approval. The city has allocated $16 million for street transportation improvements, focusing on safety and infrastructure enhancements near the regional highways intersecting with Highway 371 and Highway 210.
The memo highlights that the proposed overpass will necessitate several modifications to the city’s utility systems, particularly the sanitary sewer and water distribution networks. These changes are critical for maintaining efficient traffic flow and preventing vehicles from diverting onto residential streets. The city believes these improvements are essential for preserving the functionality of its local street system.
Project Implementation and Timeline
The memo outlines specific project areas that the city plans to address. These include adjustments to Isle Drive and Foley Road, the realignment of Elder Drive, and the extension of Fairview Road to connect with Excelsior Road. The construction will also focus on improvements at the Glory Road and College Road intersection, including the anticipated installation of a new three-quarter intersection on Highway 210, which is expected to facilitate increased commercial traffic.
Concerns have been raised regarding the potential rise in traffic volume at the Glory Road and College Road intersection, particularly for vehicles making left turns onto Highway 371. While the memo does not specifically address the need for dual left-turn lanes from College Road to southbound Highway 371, city staff suggest that such improvements should be considered in coordination with other upgrades.
The timeline for the project indicates that construction is anticipated to begin in 2032. In the meantime, adjustments to both water mains and sanitary sewer systems will be required to accommodate the new infrastructure.
Baxter city officials believe that linking these projects to the Highway 210 and Highway 371 overpass initiative serves the best interest of the city. By establishing a clear connection between the two, the city aims to secure the use of Municipal State Aid Streets (MSAS) funds for eligible roadway improvements.
As the city moves forward, careful planning and execution will be crucial to ensure the successful implementation of the overpass project and the accompanying utility enhancements.