Forest Lake council approves phased Broadway median refresh, to bid Phase 1 for 2025

Forest Lake’s City Council voted to approve a phased refresh of landscaped medians on Broadway, authorizing staff to finalize construction plans and bid the first phase for 2025.

Lucius, a city presenter, said the project balances aesthetics with long‑term maintenance: "We are looking at several of the landscape medians on Broadway from 19th Street to the Lake Street roundabout and just considering what we can do to refresh those medians," and described a plant palette and design intent to reduce future upkeep. Staff showed renderings that ranged from maintaining much of the existing landscape to targeted concrete infill in limited areas to reduce maintenance burdens and improve sight lines at intersections.

Council discussion focused on maintenance, colored concrete matching and short‑term logistics during construction. Lucius said crews plan pre‑inspection at nurseries to avoid poor stock and proposed optional construction administration for key milestones to reduce disputes with contractors. The presentation outlined a conservative cost estimate and a 3–4 year plan, beginning with the 19th Street intersection in 2025.

Council Member Erickson moved to approve the project as presented; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. Mayor Roberts thanked staff for the work. The council’s action authorizes staff to finalize construction documents and proceed with bidding for Phase 1.

Next steps: staff will finalize construction plans, incorporate feedback from the beautification committee and bring bid documents for Phase 1 to council for final authorization.