by Dennis Dalman
The final design plan for the ambitious CR 1 project was approved by the Sartell City Council at a recent meeting.
CR 1 is also known as Riverside Avenue, on the west side of the Mississippi River. The portion that will be reconstructed, with lots of amenities added, is from Sartell Street on the south to 12th Street N. on the north end.
Among the improvements are a reconstructed road, additional or repaired sewer and water mains, an eight-foot wide paved trail along that whole stretch, several scenic overlooks above the river, a pedestrian walkway on the old Sartell bridge, alterations to Veterans Park and reconstruction of the parking lot at Watab Park, just across from Veterans Park.
There will also be improved lighting, pedestrian safety crossings and sidewalk connectors from the riverside trail to the existing trails on Seventh Street N. and 12th Street. That will make possible a complete trail network from Second Street S. to 12th Street N. and eventually beyond.
At previous council meetings and an open house about the project, many residents expressed concerns about the need for the bike trails and about pedestrian safety. Project designers then decided to add pedestrian flashing-light crossings, pedestrian islands and radar traffic-speed signs at the south and north ends of the roadway.
In mid-June 2021, residents were invited to city hall to view maps and designs of the project to help them understand the intended scope and the details of the project. It is one of Sartell’s many efforts to make the Mississippi part of the city’s scenic and recreational amenities for both residents and visitors.
One of the key features of the project is the historic bridge becoming accessible to pedestrians. They will be able to walk on it from the west across to the east side, although there won’t – yet anyway – be access to the eastside land until perhaps later when and if it becomes developed.
The bridge was the main bridge connecting Sartell to the east from 1914 to 1984. The pedestrian pathway across it will have decorative lighting and other safety features.
Last May, the city council approved assessments of $8,000 each for the 77 homes and businesses along that road.
Working plans on the project are expected to be finalized this fall, and construction could begin in the spring of 2022. The final paving would occur the following spring.
