Cottage Grove public works reports progress on 80th Street rehab, 95th Street overlay and upcoming county road realignment funding

Public works and council staff briefed the commission on capital projects, schedule updates and funding July 20.

Gary (public works staff, S5) said crack filling is complete, crosswalk stenciling is nearly done ahead of school, and paving is progressing on Kimbrough and 80th Street. He said crews expect to complete center-median and repaving work on 95th Street and that trail sections on the north and south sides are complete. Residents were directed to the city website for weekly construction updates.

Councilperson Claussen (S4) told the commission the city received nearly $10 million in state funding for the 100th Street/County 19 realignment, a county-managed project for which the county board has finalized the road design and will put the work out to bid. Claussen said the county requested a city approval for an interim 4-way stop at Jamaica and Ravine Parkway to acclimate drivers before a planned roundabout at the Cottage Grove/Woodbury line; the roundabout and other roundabout work are expected in 2028.

Commissioners asked about median placement on 95th and why some phases may appear inactive at times; Gary explained utility, curb and ramp phases involve different crews and that work is weather-dependent. In a lighter moment, staff confirmed the single-ply material used during crack sealing is ordinary toilet paper placed to keep sealant from tracking until it cures.

No formal actions were taken on the projects at the meeting; staff noted bids and county schedules will determine next steps and timelines.