Oakdale accepts 2026 street-reconstruction feasibility report; assessment hearings set

The Oakdale City Council accepted a feasibility report for the 2026 street reconstruction program during its Dec. 9 meeting and authorized the preparation of plans and specifications and a public improvement and assessment hearing scheduled for Jan. 27, 2026.

City Engineer Brian (Mr. Bachmire) told council the program focuses on Greenway Avenue, Second Street, Grafton, Fourth Street and Third Street Court. He presented photos showing extensive pavement patching and documented more than 30 water-main breaks in the combined project area. Proposed improvements include full pavement reconstruction, replacement of curb and gutter where needed, targeted replacement of water mains with a history of breaks, televising of sanitary and storm sewers for spot repairs, and surface-water-quality improvements required by the Ramsey-Washington Watershed District.

The feasibility estimate rose modestly compared with the CIP estimate, largely because the feasibility analysis uses average unit prices across recent bids; the report also reflected additional surface-water work mandated by the watershed district. The engineer said trees that conflict with proposed sidewalk and utilities (about 50 trees citywide across the project area, including 10 ash trees) will be removed with replacement plantings offered as part of the program.

The council voted to accept the report, declare the cost to be assessed and establish the assessment hearings; staff will return with final plans, specifications and assessment rolls for council action after the January hearings. Council also authorized service contracts to prepare plans and specifications for the identified projects.