Bayport backs Safe Routes to School grant to build sidewalk to new elementary school

Bayport City Council voted Jan. 6 to adopt a resolution supporting an application to the Minnesota Safe Routes to School infrastructure grant to construct a sidewalk along Fifth Avenue that would connect existing sidewalk segments to the site of the new elementary school.

City staff described the project as essentially a two-block sidewalk installation with significant construction items: new curb cuts, retaining walls where slopes require them, relocation of at least one fire hydrant, and stormwater infrastructure adjustments. “The Safe Routes to School grant is specific to construction costs only,” staff said, emphasizing that engineering costs and any construction cost overruns would not be covered by the grant and would fall to the city if awarded.

The grant application requires a formal resolution pledging that the city will maintain the improvements for a minimum of 10 years. Council members asked for clarity about what “maintenance” covers — staff said it refers to maintaining Americans with Disabilities Act compliance and repairing damaged panels, not routine snow shoveling. Staff also discussed outreach with five immediate neighbors and said that sidewalk snow removal would remain the property owners’ responsibility under current practice.

Council discussed whether Washington County would help pay because the road is County-managed; staff said the county was not participating in the project but that the city could explore other grants or funding sources in the future. Council moved and approved the resolution of support and the maintenance pledge required by the grant application.

Council action: resolution supporting application adopted; if awarded, the grant would cover construction costs and the city would cover engineering and any overrun costs. Further design and cost refinement were indicated as next steps.