Stark County endorses Transportation Alternatives grant to connect Dickinson with Patterson Lake

The Stark County Commission unanimously endorsed a Transportation Alternatives grant application to the North Dakota Department of Transportation that would fund a shared‑use trail linking Dickinson and Patterson Lake.

Benjamin Ray, Executive Director of Dickinson Parks and Recreation, said the application is for fiscal year 2028 and that the grant would cover 80% of construction costs. "The grant covers 80% of the construction costs," Ray said, and he added that engineering and construction administration (about 20%) would be the applying entity’s responsibility. Ray said the project emerged from public open houses and the city’s master plan and that SRF helped assemble the application.

Commissioners asked about whether lighting or crosswalk traffic controls were included; Ray said lighting is not part of the current design and that additional lighting would likely come later as development occurs. Commissioners discussed local cost shares and the possibility of in‑kind contributions (county equipment or labor) to reduce cash outlays.

Commissioner Marsh moved to endorse the grant application and Commissioner Claris seconded; the commission approved the endorsement by voice vote. Staff said endorsement does not bind the county to the full local match and that partner outreach would continue if the application is successful.

What’s next: staff will submit the application before the state deadline and pursue partner funding and in‑kind options if the project advances.