County approves MnDOT agreements for 2026 TH‑15/212 roundabout detour and intersection lighting

McLeod County commissioners on Tuesday approved two Minnesota Department of Transportation agreements tied to the Trunk Highway 15/212 roundabout construction scheduled for 2026: a lighting maintenance agreement for the intersection of TH‑15 and County State Highway 26 and a detour reimbursement agreement covering county roads that will serve as part of the detour.

The lighting agreement (MnDOT Lighting Maintenance Agreement 1060250) delegates major maintenance and utility locating to MnDOT while McLeod County will provide minor maintenance and electrical service for an intersection light that will be installed as part of the roundabout project. The detour agreement (MnDOT Detour Agreement 1060438) covers use of County/City Highways 32, 26 and 7 for the detour and sets a reimbursement to the county for road life consumed and maintenance associated with the detour.

The detour reimbursement estimate is $48,633.43; county staff told commissioners that amount is an estimate and will rise or fall based on the number of days the detour is active. Andrew (public works staff) explained the reimbursement is calculated from estimated traffic and closure duration and will be adjusted if the detour period changes.

Commissioner Krueger moved to approve the lighting agreement; Commissioner Wright seconded. The board approved the motion by voice vote. Commissioner Krueger later moved to approve the detour agreement; a second was given and the board approved that motion by voice vote as well.

County staff said the intersection light and detour coordination require substantial advance planning because the intersection will be part of the official detour route during construction. MnDOT will perform major maintenance tasks and utility locating for the light, while the county retains responsibility for day‑to‑day minor repairs and supplying electrical service.

The agreements are intended to formalize roles and payment for expected work during the 2026 construction season. Commissioners made no additional policy changes; the board approved both agreements as presented.