Clay County approves $4.4M road construction bid to enhance Comstock area access

In a recent meeting of the Clay County Board of Commissioners, significant discussions centered around the upcoming construction project along Highway 75, which is set to enhance local infrastructure while minimizing disruptions to the agricultural community. The project, which will extend from Highway 75 to the railroad tracks, is scheduled for completion by September 15, 2025, to avoid interfering with the corn harvest.

Commissioners highlighted the importance of this timeline, noting that the construction's coordination with local grain elevators has been crucial. The flexibility shown by these businesses has been instrumental in ensuring that the project proceeds smoothly, with local stakeholders expressing their willingness to adapt to construction needs to support the community's agricultural activities.

The project is expected to be phased, with the first phase focusing on the section from Highway 75 to the tracks this year, and the second phase extending from the tracks to Overton Creek in 2026. This two-year approach is not uncommon for municipal projects, allowing for a more manageable budget and timeline. Preliminary estimates suggest that approximately $2.5 million will be allocated for the 2025 budget, with the remainder expected in 2026.

Commissioner Muggill emphasized the positive reception of the bids, which came in favorably despite initial concerns regarding costs and funding from the Minnesota legislature. The total budget for the project is projected to be around $5 million, with local businesses and residents expressing optimism about the benefits this infrastructure improvement will bring to the Comstock area.

The board unanimously approved the low bid from Celine Brothers for the project, amounting to $4,434,546.77, contingent upon the absence of errors in the bid submissions. This decision marks a significant step forward in addressing the road conditions that have been a source of frustration for local residents and producers.

Overall, the meeting underscored the collaborative efforts between the county, local businesses, and the agricultural community to ensure that essential infrastructure improvements are made while minimizing disruptions to local economies. As the project progresses, the board will continue to monitor its impact and address any emerging concerns.