Stearns County Gearing Up for 2025's Busy Road Construction Season

Dec 6, 2024 at 11:00 AM
Stearns County is gearing up for an intense road construction season in 2025. County Engineer Jodi Teich provides insights into the various projects underway. One of the major undertakings is the reconstruction and widening of County Road 2 south of Cold Spring to near the county line. A portion will undergo full-depth resurfacing, but in the 210th Street area, a full reconstruction is planned. This project will feature eight-foot paved shoulders and will soften some curves northeast of St. Nicholas, and it is expected to last through the entire summer. Additionally, moving a large Xcel Energy transmission line at a cost of $2,900,000 is a crucial part of this work.Another significant project is County Road 157 between Albany and Freeport. As an old trunk highway along the Lake Wobegon Trail, it has an 18-foot wide concrete pavement beneath the asphalt. Due to poor subsoils, this concrete moves, so the county will be removing it, making soil corrections, replacing box culverts, and widening the shoulders to six-feet-wide paved shoulders. An old railroad bridge just west of Albany will also be removed.In 2025, other projects include County Road 133 in St. Joseph, a small resurfacing section on County Road 2 north of St. Stephen, and a roundabout west of St. Joseph at County Road 2 and Minnesota Street. In St. Cloud and Waite Park, County Road 81 (3rd Street North) will have a resurfacing project that will require some road closures and detours due to the tight corridor and heavy traffic. Contractors need room to make storm sewer repairs.Townline Road between Sartell and St. Stephen is still awaiting federal funds and will be reconstructed in 2026. In total, Stearns County has 10 road reconstruction or resurfacing projects scheduled for next year.Come and explore the progress of these road projects with us through the pictures of Cold Spring, Freeport, and Albany.

County Road 2: South of Cold Spring to Near County Line

The reconstruction and widening of County Road 2 is a major focus. It showcases the county's commitment to improving infrastructure. The full-depth resurfacing in certain areas and the extensive work in the 210th Street area demonstrate the scale of the project. The addition of eight-foot paved shoulders and the softening of curves will enhance safety and usability. This is a significant undertaking that will have a lasting impact on the local transportation network.Moreover, the need to move the large Xcel Energy transmission line adds another layer of complexity to the project. It requires careful planning and coordination to ensure a smooth construction process while minimizing disruptions.

The full summer duration of this project allows for thorough work to be done. It gives the contractors enough time to complete the various tasks and ensure the quality of the construction. This attention to detail is crucial for the long-term success of the road improvement.

County Road 157: Between Albany and Freeport

As an old trunk highway, County Road 157 presents unique challenges. The presence of an 18-foot wide concrete pavement beneath the asphalt is a remnant of the past. The poor subsoils cause the concrete to move, necessitating extensive work to remove it, make soil corrections, and replace box culverts.The widening of the shoulders to six-feet-wide paved shoulders is a significant improvement. It will provide more space for vehicles and pedestrians, enhancing safety and comfort. This project is a testament to the county's efforts to modernize and upgrade its transportation infrastructure.

The removal of the old railroad bridge just west of Albany is another important aspect. It clears the way for the new road construction and improves the overall flow of traffic. This project is a part of the county's comprehensive plan to enhance connectivity and efficiency.

Other 2025 Projects

County Road 133 in St. Joseph, a small portion of County Road 2 north of St. Stephen, and the roundabout west of St. Joseph at County Road 2 and Minnesota Street are other notable projects. Each of these plays a role in improving the local road network and addressing specific needs.The resurfacing project on County Road 81 in St. Cloud and Waite Park highlights the importance of maintaining existing roads. Despite being a resurfacing project, it still requires careful management to ensure minimal disruptions to traffic.

Townline Road between Sartell and St. Stephen's awaiting federal funds is a reminder of the ongoing efforts to secure necessary resources for road construction. Once funded, the reconstruction will bring significant improvements to this important route.