Frequently Asked Questions
What is this project about?
The 2024 Street and Utility Project will make updates to the City of Medicine Lake’s aging street and utility networks to ensure long-term community vitality. Construction is scheduled to start in spring 2024.
Will the project include pedestrian or bicycle facilities?
Yes, 2024 Street and Utility Project will improve safety and mobility for people walking, biking, and rolling. Improvements include designated bicycle lanes and pedestrian routes, and a replacement of the City Trail along S. Shore Drive.
When do property owners need to connect their homes to the watermains?
The City recently passed an ordinance which sets forth 3 criteria for connection to City Water:
If your existing well fails
If you sell your house
If you are making major renovations requiring a building permit
For more information visit the Water Services page.
Will there be any impact on driveways, landscaping, or irrigation systems?
Driveways, landscaping, and yards may be disturbed as part of the project. The project contractor will replace and restore your property. Please note that new driveway pavement will not look the same as old, weather driveways.
Irrigation systems along the edges of the road will be disrupted. You may want to contact your irrigation contractor ahead of time to shut down that zone and move the lines and heads off the public right-of-way.
How is this project being paid for?
The cost of the project for both engineering and construction costs is estimated at $7 million. The City obtained a 50% match from State Bonding for $3.5 million. The remaining balance will come from City issued, 30 year local bond and capital reserves. The City bond will cover approximately $2.6 million of it and capital cash reserves will pay the remainder.
Will there be any assessments or tax increases for property owners as a result of the project?
The City has included a line item for the bond repayment in their annual operating budget. Therefore, there will be no need to increase property taxes to pay off the local bonds. No special assessments to the adjacent property owners will need to be utilized on this project. PLEASE NOTE: when the project is completed, property owners will be responsible for all costs to hook up their property to the watermain.
Will electric lines be moved underground?
Moving electric lines underground is not included as part of this project. The City may consider this into the future as funds become available.
Will the water source be maintained by the City of Plymouth?
Yes, the Medicine Lake water system will be linked and maintained by the City of Plymouth’s system. A maintenance and financial arrangement has been negotiated between the two cities.
When will construction begin?
Construction is scheduled to start in spring 2024. Construction details will be shared as soon as they are available.
When will construction end?
Construction is anticipated to be completed by the fall of 2024.
Will there be any impacts to mailboxes and deliveries during construction?
Some private property mailboxes near the street will be removed during roadway reconstruction. Mailboxes removed will be stored, and reinstalled after construction is complete.
Mail service to all properties will be stopped during roadway reconstruction to prevent mail vehicles driving through the construction zone.
Temporary mailboxes will be set up at City Hall. Property owners may want to consider sending their packages to a different location during this period, such as place of employment.
Will there be any impacts to street parking during construction?
Yes, street parking will not be allowed during construction.