Frequently Asked Questions

The City received Federal Funding through the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) to be used to facilitate the construction of the trail connection from Austin Road to Bixby Road. This is Phase 2 of a two-part grant allocation to connect the trail along 18th Street from Linn Drive to Bixby Road. The need for this trail segment was identified in 2012 as part of the City’s Sidewalks and Trails Plan and then reinforced in the Parks and Trails System Master Plan that was adopted in 2020. The funding to create the trail along with the condition and age of the road, existing utilities and drainage improvements were all considered in selecting this project. There was also additional federal funding that the City was awarded to help with the reconstruction of the roadway. 

We are currently in the design phase for the project which will last the remainder of this year (2025). Our goal is to go out for bid and select a contractor to complete the work in the early part of 2026 with construction most likely beginning in late spring 2026. 

The 10’ wide multi-modal trail will be on the north side of the street to maintain connectivity to the newly constructed trail west of Austin Road and the future trail connection planned for east of Bixby Rd. Placing the trail on the north side also reduces overall project cost as it avoids the need to relocate the existing powerline on the south side of the road. 

City staff applied for and received federal funding through the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP). To qualify, projects must serve a transportation purpose for nonmotorized modes. They primarily serve a commuting purpose, connect two destinations or connect people to recreational destinations. 

Additional funding will come from other Federal Funds, State Aid Funds, Capital Improvement Funds, Special Assessments, and contributions from Owatonna Public Utilities, sanitary and stormwater funds. 

Similar to all other city trails, city staff will maintain the trail segment planned between Austin Road and Bixby Road. 

Maintenance activities will include snow removal, seal coating, patching, paving, etc. 

A feedback form is available on the project webpage: 2026 18th Street SE Reconstruction

Please utilize this form to offer feedback or ask a question for staff to respond to. All forms received regarding the project will be added to the project file for future reference.