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AGENDA RECOMMENDATION |
6.M.
City Council Regular Meeting
- Meeting Date:
- 07/14/2025
Agenda Item:
Resolution approving temporary construction easements for Veteran's Memorial Bridge Project.
Recommendation/Action(s):
Adoption of the attached resolution.
Summary:
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), in partnership with the cities of Mankato and North Mankato, is developing plans for improvements to the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge for construction beginning in 2026. The project includes re-decking of the existing bridge and installation of new parapet walls, railings and street lighting.
To facilitate construction, temporary construction easements are needed from adjoining properties, including several owned by the City of Mankato. MnDOT has prepared the necessary easements and is asking the City of Mankato to grant them at no cost. Similar dedications have occurred on many previous MnDOT projects.
The specific easement areas are depicted on the attached exhibit and will impact three general areas:
While the majority of construction will occur in 2026, it is likely that some work will extend into 2027. The temporary easements are proposed to stay in place until December 2031 to allow follow-up and repair, if needed, to occur. Any obstructions within the easement areas will be removed by the completion of the construction contract in 2027 and full City use will be restored.
To facilitate construction, temporary construction easements are needed from adjoining properties, including several owned by the City of Mankato. MnDOT has prepared the necessary easements and is asking the City of Mankato to grant them at no cost. Similar dedications have occurred on many previous MnDOT projects.
The specific easement areas are depicted on the attached exhibit and will impact three general areas:
- Minnesota River Trail - The existing trail will be closed for the duration of the project since the majority of construction will occur on the bridge over the trail.
- Reconciliation Park - Fencing will be installed behind the existing tree line to allow construction access along the portion of the park adjacent to the rail lines. In addition, a fence will be installed approximately 25' south of the overhead bridge to prohibit access from the park to the work zone. It is anticipated that construction will not impact the use of the improved areas of the park and MnDot will coordinate construction with the City to minimize impacts to any planned events in the park.
- Public Parking South of Bridge and East of Riverfront Drive - Public parking will not be allowed under or adjacent to the existing bridge during construction. The City owns a portion of the parking lot immediately to the south of the bridge adjacent to the library parking lot.
While the majority of construction will occur in 2026, it is likely that some work will extend into 2027. The temporary easements are proposed to stay in place until December 2031 to allow follow-up and repair, if needed, to occur. Any obstructions within the easement areas will be removed by the completion of the construction contract in 2027 and full City use will be restored.