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Brainerd EDA discusses mitigation program, liaison role ahead of Washington Street reconstruction
Summary
The Brainerd Economic Development Authority reviewed a proposed mitigation and business-outreach plan for the Washington Street (Trunk Highway 210) reconstruction, discussed a possible business liaison position and potential EDA funding, and asked staff to return with budget options before the project is let in January.
Brainerd’s Economic Development Authority on April 3 reviewed a draft mitigation plan intended to help downtown and Washington Street businesses cope with the Trunk Highway 210 reconstruction and discussed possible financial support and an on‑the‑ground business liaison.
The proposal, prepared by the Brainerd Area Chamber of Commerce with input from MnDOT and other local partners, would create a branded outreach campaign, a communications network to notify customers about closures and access, workshops for businesses on social media and marketing, and a facade/signage grant pool timed to the construction. “I feel pretty strongly that EDA should be a major contributor to this and helping with this just because it's impacting such a huge part of our business community,” Marie (City staff) said during the meeting.
Why it matters: MnDOT’s reconstruction will disrupt vehicle access along Washington Street and is scheduled to be let in January; the EDA and partners want to reduce economic harm to small businesses and encourage long‑term corridor investment once construction finishes.
Key details: The draft budget presented projects larger upfront costs in year one, with an example figure of about $90,000 for launch activities in 2026 and a smaller amount in 2027 (the packet showed a $65,000 figure for a later year). A sizeable line item is a business liaison position to act as a third‑party contact between businesses and MnDOT; participants debated whether that would be a full‑time position and who would employ or pay it. “The thought behind that is that person would be somebody that businesses could reach out to,” a staff member said.
Staff and EDA members discussed alternative funding sources. MnDOT staff said districts sometimes reserve small contingencies for wayfinding or construction‑related needs but that the level of financial commitment typically becomes clearer as the project reaches 60–90% design. HRA and city staff said they will pursue Deed (Department of Employment and Economic Development) grant opportunities and other partners.
Next steps and direction: Staff will report back with more concrete budget options and a possible preliminary dedication of EDA funds at the next meeting. Multiple EDA members urged starting planning earlier so businesses and contractors can schedule work before construction begins. One member recommended the EDA and city consider a multi‑year approach so year‑one launch costs are covered and year‑two work can continue without scrambling.
Ending: EDA members signaled general interest but made no formal commitment of funds at the April 3 workshop; staff will return with budget scenarios and draft program details for further deliberation.
