Commissioners accept $500,000 special‑road award for Red Willow Road repair

Wayne announced that Griggs County was selected for a $500,000 Special Road Fund award for the Red Willow Road project and asked the commission whether it would accept the grant.

Paul, the county road/engineering staff, described the scope of the work as “patching, subgrade repair, some cement treatment of the base, then a mill and overlay,” plus use of millings on the shoulders to provide room for asphalt. He said the project estimate — including design and construction engineering — was about $1,200,000 and that the state grant is limited to $500,000 with up to 80% state participation. Paul warned that accepting the award creates the expectation the county will commit the balance of funds needed to finish the job.

Paul also told the board a separate Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) application seeks $884,000 for complementary widening and shoulder work; if HSIP funding is secured, staff advised sequencing HSIP work ahead of the mill/overlay to avoid damaging new pavement. Paul said HSIP programming is usually multiple years out and urged the board to plan accordingly.

Commissioner Josh moved to accept the special‑road award; Scott seconded. The motion carried on a unanimous roll call with all commissioners voting aye.

The Chair noted the state expects an acceptance decision by April 30; staff said they would return with refined cost estimates and scheduling information at the next meeting so the board can confirm financing and timing.

Why it matters: the grant reduces the county’s upfront construction need but still leaves a substantial local match. Commissioners were explicit that accepting the award commits the county to finish the project if additional funding is not secured.

What’s next: staff will finalize bids and cost breakdowns, coordinate with HSIP timing if that program is later funded, and return with recommended funding sources and a project schedule.