News Summary
Baxter and Jackson are undergoing significant infrastructure improvements through construction projects and grants designed to enhance transportation, manage flooding, and revitalize communities. Key developments include road improvements and support for local businesses through various grants, which are fostering economic growth and creating new opportunities for residents. Local officials express optimism that these initiatives will contribute to long-term community resilience and vitality.
Construction Projects and Grants Boost Economic Development in Baxter and Jackson
The cities of Baxter and Jackson are experiencing significant infrastructure improvements and economic growth fueled by ongoing construction projects and grants aimed at supporting local businesses. These developments are expected to enhance transportation, address flooding issues, and stimulate community revitalization.
Road Construction in Baxter
Starting Tuesday, September 2, construction activities will impact Audubon Way, a road located off Highway 371 North in Baxter. Despite the construction, Audubon Way will generally remain open to local traffic; however, there may be brief closures or delays during specific work phases. The construction is scheduled to continue for approximately seven to eight weeks, during which motorists are advised to pay close attention to temporary signage and detours to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow.
This project is managed by Widseth, and residents or commuters with questions or concerns can contact the project’s engineer, Alex Bitter, at 218-316-3627 or via email at alex.bitter@widseth.com. City officials have expressed gratitude for the community’s patience and cooperation while construction progresses.
Design Road Flood Prevention and Water Management Improvements
In addition to Audubon Way, work on Design Road in Baxter has been ongoing since Wednesday, August 20, 2025. The project involves relocating and enlarging an existing storm pipe to 60 inches in diameter and reducing the road’s width to 36 feet to accommodate new infrastructure. The upgrade is designed to improve drainage and reduce flooding, particularly on the western side of Highway 371.
The revised Design Road will feature a stronger 10-ton standard to support heavier vehicle traffic and improve durability. Water from the project will drain into the Whiskey Creek system, which plays a crucial role in removing contaminated water from Baxter’s commercial district before the water reaches the Mississippi River. The entire project is largely funded through federal and state sources, with an estimated total cost of approximately $3 million.
Grants Supporting Local Business Growth in Jackson and Surrounding Areas
In Jackson, local businesses are benefiting from several grants awarded by organizations such as Fluor-BWXT and the Joint Economic Development Initiative of Southern Ohio. These grants aim to foster growth and renovation within the community and support entrepreneurship.
Holy Grounds Coffee, a women-owned business that transformed from a food truck into a storefront coffee shop, received a grant of $7,500. The funds will be used to purchase new equipment and to hire four employees, helping expand the business’s operations and employment opportunities.
The owner of the building housing Holy Grounds Coffee was also awarded a grant of $25,750. This funding will facilitate renovations of the upper floors into residential living spaces, contributing to urban revitalization and increasing housing options in the area.
Another local project supported by grants is the renovation of a building on Broadway Street in Jackson, transforming it into professional office space and residential units. Evan Massie of EGM Construction Services was awarded a $20,000 grant for this project, which is part of a broader effort to upgrade historical buildings and stimulate commercial activity.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
Community leaders highlight that renovating historic buildings and improving infrastructure not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of Jackson’s Broadway Street area but also create new economic opportunities by attracting businesses and residents. These improvements are viewed as vital steps toward long-term community development and resilience.
Individuals interested in learning more about these initiatives or applying for future grants can visit websites or contact relevant organizations. For more information on the Joint Economic Development Initiative of Southern Ohio, residents can visit www.choosesouthernohio.com or call 740.286.2838. Details about the Fluor-BWXT project are available at www.fbportsmouth.com or by calling 740.987.2432.
Conclusion
The ongoing construction projects in Baxter and Jackson, combined with targeted grants supporting small businesses and redevelopment efforts, represent significant steps toward strengthening local infrastructure and boosting economic vitality. These initiatives are expected to continue shaping the communities into more resilient, vibrant areas for residents and businesses alike.
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Additional Resources
- Brainerd Dispatch: Design Road Project Continues in Baxter
- Wikipedia: Baxter, Minnesota
- Vinton Jackson Courier: FBX and JEDISO Provide Funding in Jackson County
- Google Search: Baxter Minnesota news
- KSL TV: Construction at Hyrum Dam Spillway
- Encyclopedia Britannica: City
- Hville Blast: Honda Dealership in Decatur New Building Permits
- Google News: Jackson County business growth
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
