EDA considers outreach to support businesses during CSAH 19 reconstruction

City Administrator Jennifer Nash told the Hanover Economic Development Authority on Aug. 15, 2024 that reconstruction of County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 19 through the Wright County portion of Hanover will continue in 2025 and will include the stretch from north of the 4th St/5th St intersection south to the bridge and River Road intersection.

Why it matters: the work will affect businesses located along the main commercial corridor. The EDA discussed low-cost tactics to keep customers informed and encourage patronage during construction.

Nash described the project’s scope and asked the board to consider ways to support affected businesses. Members proposed several outreach tactics: posting signs outside the project area stating that businesses are open during construction; using banners or lighted signage at locations where the city posts event notices; contacting the nearby city of Loretto to learn lessons from a recent corridor project; and advertising in the area Chamber of Commerce and other local newsletters.

The board agreed that staff should investigate these options over the winter and prepare proposals ahead of the spring construction season. Treasurer Jessica Johnson also raised timing for the next business social event, with members weighing a spring event or waiting until after the CSAH 19 reconstruction is complete.

The EDA will revisit the outreach recommendations and scheduling as staff returns findings; no formal outreach program or budget was adopted at this meeting.