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Dunn County engineers urge cul-de-sacs to address safety, town pushes for compromise
Summary
County highway staff recommended installing cul-de-sacs at two intersections tied to a 2028 County Road D bridge replacement, citing visibility concerns from 31-inch guardrail; town representatives proposed a compromise to keep one intersection open and adjust radii to reduce costs.
Dunn County highway staff told the county committee they prefer installing cul-de-sacs at two intersections that will be affected by the planned replacement of the County Road D “High Bridge,” citing safety and sight-line concerns.
"My concern is having an intersection right on top of this guardrail is gonna have vision restrictions," said the county engineer (speaker S2), arguing that the standard 31-inch guardrail required for the project could create sight-distance problems for drivers at nearby intersections.
The engineer outlined two main options: relocate and realign the intersections — which the engineering firm estimated could cost just over $1,000,000 to move both intersections — or construct two 60-foot-radius cul-de-sacs at an estimated $530,000. He noted the state or federal DOT typically funds only the minimum AASHTO standard (a 30-foot radius for residential situations), leaving any larger radius or relocation costs to the county.
Town representatives and residents urged the committee to consider compromises. "From the town's perspective, we could live with the cul-de-sac on the north side; the south side we would really rather not," said a town representative (speaker S5), proposing offsetting costs by accepting township standards on one side and a larger cul-de-sac on the other.
Residents and committee members debated operational implications for emergency vehicles and large equipment, and whether a 120-foot-diameter standard used by the town (cited in the town ordinance) is necessary. One resident (speaker S9) said smaller radii make it difficult for a truck and trailer to turn without a Y-turn; others asked about speed reductions and additional signage.
The county engineer emphasized that the recommendation is safety-driven. "If we have to do cul-de-sacs, like I said... it's just I'm leaning on the safety aspect, and I do not wanna get phone calls or an accident happen when we build a brand new road," he said.
Committee members asked staff to return with more detailed cost breakdowns and design options for the engineering firm to finalize plans. Chair (speaker S4) said the committee could provide formal direction at a future meeting if members wished.
No formal action to adopt either option was taken at the meeting; the discussion generated a request for more complete cost and design information and potential negotiation with the town and DOT about standards and funding responsibility.
The county anticipates replacing the High Bridge in 2028 and says the decision on whether to relocate intersections or add cul-de-sacs will affect right-of-way needs, construction cost and local maintenance responsibilities.
