by Mari Radtke
Phase I (of III) of the Mill Creek Park sewer improvement project began in April as mild weather gave Cleveringa Excavating a window into advancing the project. Trenching and installation of 3-inch sewer lines is done, including boring under the entry driveway readying connection for future phases of the project. Engineering for this upgrade was done by DGR. Phase I will connect “The Lodge,” the shop and the office to Paullina’s sewer system. According to O’Brien County Conservation Director Mark Wilson, a year-round bathroom will be constructed and connected to this sewer system also. Lift stations and connections to the buildings remain for this year’s part of the project.
This portion of the project carries a cost of $212,000. ARPA funds of $150,000 will be used with the balance coming from either Conservation general fund or the Conservation Reserve Fund. Substantial completion of this project is expected by Memorial Day 2025. Additional phases will begin as funding becomes available.
O’Brien County campgrounds at Mill Creek, Dog Creek, Tjossem and Douma will open May First.