EGF eyes 4th St NE reconstruction

The East Grand Forks council approved plans and specs last night (Tuesday) for the reconstruction of 4th Street Northeast – but stopped short of moving the project forward as is.

The road work would target a stretch between 5th Avenue Northeast and the American Crystal Sugar property line. City Engineer Steve Emery says the current street is 46 years old and in rough shape.

During a public hearing several residents questioned the scope of the work and the $792,612 dollars that would be assessed against property owners and businesses. Several council members suggested staff take another look at the project to see if it can be scaled back. Brian Larson was among those looking for other options. “50% of the property owners say we don’t want to pay for this whole road…I hear that loud and clear.”

Emery says there’s time for further review as the project is not slated for this construction season.