News Summary
Marshall is currently navigating significant construction activities, particularly at the intersection of West College Drive and Saratoga Street, where paving is in progress. The area is unlikely to be fully open to traffic before the school’s commencement next week. Ongoing utility upgrades and road reconstruction are also affecting daily traffic patterns. Safety measures are being implemented for pedestrians, especially children returning to school. Local authorities aim to minimize disruptions during this crucial period, coinciding with the significant Marshall Energy Center project aimed at improving energy reliability.
Marshall Construction Projects Face Paving Delays Amid Ongoing Upgrades
Marshall is experiencing significant construction activity as several infrastructure projects move forward, with particular attention to road improvements and utility upgrades. Construction crews are actively working on the intersection of West College Drive and Saratoga Street, where paving efforts are underway, although the area is unlikely to be fully open to traffic before the upcoming school start next week. Meanwhile, utility work, grading, and road reconstruction are progressing nearby, affecting daily traffic patterns in the city.
Paving Work at West College Drive and Saratoga Street
Construction at the intersection of West College Drive and Saratoga Street is in progress, with paving efforts ongoing. Current work includes concrete paving that was initiated last week, leading to the complete closure of the intersection to vehicle traffic. While crews aim to connect the intersection smoothly with the surrounding streets, it is expected that the integration will take an additional one to two weeks, weather permitting.
During this period, efforts are being made to ensure safety for pedestrians and drivers. A safe crossing path for children is planned, featuring a designated route with a solid surface for pedestrians to cross safely as students return to school. R and G Construction representatives are coordinating with Marshall Public Schools to manage the transition, and Erika Coudron from the construction firm plans to be present at the site to assist children in adjusting to the change.
Starting Monday, traffic crossing the West College Drive and Saratoga Street intersection will be restricted as concrete road surface work resumes early in the morning. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes, as Highway 19 crossings remain accessible via detours on Lyon County Road 7 and Minnesota Highway 23, though some local segments are still open.
Utility and Road Reconstruction Near the National Guard Armory
Simultaneously, utility companies are actively relocating lines in the area near the National Guard Armory, part of a broader effort to reconstruct and upgrade West College Drive. This work includes installation of new water and sewer pipes, with crews nearing completion on these utility upgrades. Soil grading and road reconstruction are also taking place, further preparing the roadway for future improvements.
Roundabout Construction and Future Phases
The Minneapolis Department of Transportation is managing the construction of a roundabout at the three-way intersection near the Armory. This project aims to improve traffic flow and safety. The current phase is approaching completion, with the contractors expecting to connect the ends of the new roundabout with existing streets within the next two weeks, weather permitting.
A plan is in place for a final construction phase in the fall, which will focus on the section of College Drive extending between Legion Field and Fourth Street. This upcoming stage is scheduled to further enhance the roadway, though there will be a short delay in starting this final phase following the completion of the current project segment.
School Year Commencement and Safety Measures
Marshall Public Schools are preparing for the start of classes on Wednesday, with Southview Elementary and Marshall Middle School set to open their doors. The school district reports a successful enrollment for summer programs, indicating strong community participation.
To aid student safety, construction crews plan to be present at the intersection during the first days of school. Marked pedestrian paths with hard-surfaces will allow children to cross the busy intersection safely, minimizing risks during the transition period.
Marshall Energy Center Construction Progress
In addition to roadway work, significant progress is underway on the new Marshall Energy Center. The project, which broke ground on July 22, is a $175 million initiative led by the Missouri Public Utility Alliance as part of its “Building MO Power” program. The energy facility aims to enhance local power reliability and maintain affordable rates for residents and businesses.
The energy center will feature four natural gas turbines to be installed in two phases, with operations projected to begin in 2026 and conclude in 2029. Once operational, the plant will generate approximately 134 megawatts in winter and 99 megawatts in summer, enough to supply three cities the size of Marshall. The project emphasizes local job creation, infrastructure development, and community support, contributing to the city’s long-term vitality.
Ongoing Coordination and Traffic Management
Throughout the construction period, local authorities and contractors continue to coordinate efforts to minimize disruptions. Besides detoured Highway 19 crossings, utility companies are actively working to relocate lines in the construction zone to facilitate eventual roadway reopening.
Overall, Marshall’s ongoing infrastructure projects reflect a concerted effort to improve city roads, utilities, and energy capacity. While paving delays and temporary traffic restrictions may impact daily commutes, these improvements are designed to support future growth and safety in the community.
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Marshall Independent: Construction Work Continues on Saratoga Intersection
- KOMU: Natural Gas Energy Facility Set to Break Ground in Marshall
- Marshall News: New Marshall Energy Center Celebrated with Groundbreaking Ceremony
- Wikipedia: Marshall, Missouri
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marshall, Missouri
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