The City of Dickinson has successfully completed eight major road improvement projects in 2025, investing approximately $21 million to enhance traffic flow and accommodate future growth. This initiative reflects the city’s commitment to maintaining safe and efficient transportation infrastructure.
The city engineer and community development director, Joshua Skluzacek, noted that general road maintenance represented the largest portion of the budget, totaling $7.1 million. This funding was sourced locally, while other projects benefited from federal and state contributions, as well as grants. Skluzacek, who has been in his role for three years, appreciates the community’s support throughout these developments.
One of the most significant projects was the upgrade of traffic signals along Highway 22, which utilized $1.5 million in federal funds and $0.4 million in state funds, covering 95% of the nearly $2 million total installed cost. Community feedback played a crucial role in maintaining the signal at Third Street near Berg Elementary, ensuring that local needs were prioritized.
Another key initiative was the revitalization of Sims Street from 2nd Street to 9th Street, which cost $5 million. This project was funded through a combination of local resources, grants, and loans. Local funding contributed just over $2 million, while grants and donations accounted for $959,700, with loans covering the remaining $2 million.
In addition to road improvements, the city undertook essential water infrastructure upgrades, including water main replacements costing $1.5 million and lead line replacements totaling $115,000. Skluzacek emphasized that the city has been proactive in addressing these issues, with loans for these projects being forgivable at a rate of 75%.
Four projects were eligible for grant funding, the largest being the water main replacements, supported by over $2.1 million in grants. Other projects that received grant assistance included the Sims Street renovation, lead line replacement, and the DHS water main extension.
Favorable weather conditions throughout the year significantly contributed to the successful completion of all projects. Skluzacek described the weather as “beyond favorable,” highlighting how it enabled timely progress.
For those interested in further details regarding the city’s financial planning, the 2025 and 2026 budget documents are accessible on the City of Dickinson’s website under the Government and Financial tabs.
Looking ahead, the city plans to feature developments from other departments in future updates. A follow-up on upcoming road construction projects for 2026 is anticipated in the spring, providing residents with insights into future improvements.
Carter Fong, the Marketing and Events Director for the City of Dickinson, contributed this article. Feedback can be sent to [email protected].
