Minnetonka approves three public‑works contracts for water, paving and trail projects

The Minnetonka City Council on March 23 approved three public‑works contracts for infrastructure projects across the city, awarding work on a sewer force‑main, a mill‑and‑overlay paving program and a multi‑block trail along Minnetonka Boulevard.

Public Works staff recommended awarding the 2026 Sherwood Forest force‑main replacement (project #25907) to New Look Contracting in the low bid of $738,828 for a cured‑in‑place lining that limits excavation; staff said the project budget is $1.2 million. "A motion to award the contract for the project, number 25907 to New Look Contracting in the amount of $738,828," Public Works staff stated during the presentation.

Council also approved the 2026 mill and overlay package, awarding the work to Northwest (low bidder) for $1,402,224.28 with a total project budget not to exceed $1.8 million. Staff said the package covers scattered paving locations citywide, including Bren Road East, Minnetonka Drive and the Public Works parking lot.

The council awarded the Minnetonka Boulevard Trail project (project #26305) to Northwest in a low bid reported at about $1.416 million. The project will construct an 8‑foot paved trail with curb and gutter, utility adjustments and overhead burial in places; staff noted Hennepin County provided a $500,000 cost‑participation grant to reduce the city's share. "We did receive $500,000 from Hennepin County, which was part of their cost participation and partnership funding," Public Works said.

Councilors emphasized neighborhood outreach and communication; staff said the city will provide e‑newsletters, text updates and signage to notify residents as construction proceeds. Each contract passed on roll call without dissent.

Construction schedules discussed at the meeting put work in spring and summer 2026 with staging and temporary traffic adjustments; staff said neighbors will be contacted and access maintained during construction where feasible.