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Mandan commission authorizes BUILD grant applications for neighborhood revitalization and Mackenzie Drive planning study
Summary
The commission authorized applications for two USDOT BUILD grants: a $25 million request for the "Mandan Proper" neighborhood revitalization project (total cost about $35M) and a planning grant for the Mackenzie Drive extension (estimated up to $5M; planning-only, 100% funded). Both authorizations passed unanimously on roll call.
City engineering staff presented two federal BUILD grant opportunities at the Feb. 17 Mandan Board of City Commissioners meeting and won unanimous authorization to apply.
Riley, representing the engineering department, described the first proposal — the "Mandan Proper" neighborhood revitalization project — which would replace cast‑iron water mains, reconstruct streets, add ADA‑compliant pedestrian paths and include storm‑sewer and sanitary repairs. Riley said the total project cost is roughly $35,000,000 and the city will seek the maximum BUILD award of $25,000,000, leaving an estimated local share of about $9.2 million to be covered from a mix of MIF funds, utility funds, special assessments and an already‑approved Department of Water Resources grant.
On the Mackenzie Drive extension, Riley described a planning‑level grant application aimed at studying a connection that could shift freight traffic off Memorial Highway and improve safety and emergency response times. Because Mandan is classified as a rural community for the program, the planning grant would carry no local cost share; Riley estimated planning costs at up to $5,000,000.
Commissioner Heintschon moved to authorize the engineering department to submit the BUILD grant application and allocate funds should the grant be awarded; Commissioner Brown seconded. Roll call on the Mandan Proper motion was recorded as all voting yes. The commission then voted to authorize the Mackenzie Drive planning application (motion by Commissioner Brown, second by Commissioner Heinshaw); that motion also carried on roll call.
If awarded, staff said the BUILD awards would require later budget decisions and project‑level approvals. Commissioner comments emphasized the importance of grants to limit special assessments for downtown residents and to start projects before future cost escalation.
The engineering department will proceed with the applications and return to the commission with further details should they be invited to apply or receive funding.
