Central ND News

The City of Mandan is moving forward with plans for a significant street improvement project in an area known as Mandan Proper. The initiative, identified in the 2024 pavement condition report, targets roads between Second St NW and Division St NW, stretching from Sixth Ave NW to Collins Ave. Of the six miles of road within this region, 93% require complete reconstruction.

Additionally, approximately 15,000 feet of mostly cast iron water mains are slated for replacement. The area has experienced 36 water breaks since 2015, with 80% occurring in the past five years. Key elements of the project include strategic Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant routes, improved transit access, and complete streets that will enhance curb and gutter sections to increase conveyance and reduce ponding.

Mandan has applied for a Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant from the United States Department of Transportation. This grant program is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and offers $1.5 billion annually from 2022 to 2026. Grants are awarded competitively, with a maximum award of $25 million — the amount Mandan seeks.

The city's Engineering Department is actively pursuing grants to ease residents' financial burden associated with street improvements. Mandan Proper was selected due to its proximity to disadvantaged community indicators, gaps in bicycle and pedestrian trip densities, and its location near Mandan's job center.

The total estimated cost for all phases of the Mandan Proper project exceeds $34 million. If successful in securing the grant, the local share would be $9.3 million, utilizing municipal infrastructure funds (prairie dog funds) alongside utility funds.

Approximately 540 parcels in the project area could face significant special assessments; however, these could decrease if the grant application succeeds.

To manage costs effectively over time, city officials plan to divide the project into four phases spanning several years. Currently in early stages, much depends on whether or not they secure funding through this grant application.

Despite awareness of a freeze on federal funding, city staff were advised to proceed with submitting their application. Residents can follow updates on cityofmandan.com.