Central ND News

The City Commission has approved a resolution regarding the First Street Improvements Phase I, also known as Street Improvement District 236. According to the North Dakota Century Code, protests must come from property owners within the specific improvement district. Out of 491 protest letters received, most were from outside the district or non-residents. The review showed that only 20% of the district protested, while over 50% is required for the project to be halted.

Concerns were primarily about parking changes. Mayor Jim Froelich stated, "We will be contacting business owners throughout the remainder of this process, so we have your input into what we can possibly do design-wise." The project is currently at 30% design completion, and parking issues will be addressed as it progresses.

Changes in parking are partly due to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements, which are mandatory regardless of federal or state funding. There are challenges with different entry point heights along Fourth Ave NW.

The Engineering Department conducted parking studies in February and April following public requests. Results indicate that even with reduced spaces, parking needs will be met during typical weekdays and weekends.

The estimated cost for Phase I is $6.8 million. Funding includes a $2.35 million grant from the North Dakota Department of Transportation Urban Grant Program and $719,816 from the North Dakota Department of Water Resources. The City has allocated $2.45 million from its Municipal Infrastructure Fund and $768,886 from the City Utility Fund. This leaves 6% of costs covered by special assessments on property owners within the district.

Reconstruction will cover First Street NW from Main Street to Second Street NW and Sixth Ave NW to Fourth Ave NW, addressing street safety and accessibility deficiencies including sidewalks and utilities.

Bidding for the project is expected this fall with construction beginning in 2026. For further information, contact the Engineering Department at 701-667-3225 or visit cityofmandan.com/roadprojects.