Dunn County Budget Meeting Approves Road Construction Funding Amid Maintenance Concerns

Dunn County's Highway Committee has taken significant steps towards improving local infrastructure during their recent meeting on August 13, 2025. The committee approved a motion to partner with Universal Truck Equipment for the fabrication of tandem axle and tri-axle trucks, a decision aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and reducing long-term costs associated with maintenance and repairs.

The committee discussed the importance of investing in newer equipment to alleviate the workload on existing machinery and to cut costs on parts and labor. This strategic move is expected to provide the county with reliable vehicles, especially as winter approaches, ensuring that essential services like snow removal are not compromised.

In addition to equipment upgrades, the committee reviewed the proposed budget for 2026, which is projected at approximately $15.06 million, slightly lower than the previous year. Key components of the budget include funding for county construction, maintenance, and bridge projects, with a focus on addressing the deteriorating condition of local roads. Dunn County currently ranks 59th out of 72 counties in Wisconsin for road conditions, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.

The committee is also exploring funding opportunities through state programs, including the Surface Transportation Program (STP) and the Agriculture Improvement Program (ARIP), to support road projects that are critical for agricultural traffic. The potential for securing state funding could significantly impact the county's ability to maintain and improve its roadways.

As the committee moves forward, they will continue to evaluate project priorities and funding applications, with the goal of enhancing the safety and reliability of Dunn County's transportation infrastructure. The next steps will involve finalizing project applications by the end of the year, ensuring that the county can secure necessary funding for upcoming road improvements.