Wright County approves contract for Kasai bridge replacement; MnDOT work affects nearby interchange timeline

Wright County commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved contract number 2504 to replace the Kasai bridge, a project funded with state aid (state gas tax) funds.

Chad, a county staff member presenting the item, said the county received favorable bid prices and that the project is funded with state aid funds. "They'd like to start within the next two weeks," Chad said, though he also told the board the county is hoping for a start after July 4 depending on contractor signatures.

During questions from commissioners about the nearby Casa 37/Costco interchange, Chad said the county has an agreement with MnDOT for $1 million of MnDOT funds for interchange work and that the bridge office is "rebooting" the bridge design to add pedestrian capacity. "It's taking way longer than we would like, but the goal is still July," he said, adding that work will continue through next summer.

Board action: Commissioner Shane moved approval of contract 2504; Commissioner Holland seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Why it matters: the Kasai bridge replacement is part of the county's road-and-bridge capital program and uses state aid funds. The MnDOT-funded interchange work and bridge rework to add pedestrian access are proceeding on MnDOT's schedule and affect when adjacent roadway work can start.

What the board decided and next steps: the contract was approved and county staff will complete contractor signatures and coordinate scheduling with MnDOT; staff estimated construction will occur this summer and continue through next summer.

Ending: commissioners were advised to tell constituents the project will be active this summer and into next year as MnDOT completes interchange and bridge approvals.