The Wright County Highway Department has signaled its readiness to commence emergency repairs on CSAH 36 in Otsego, which shut down for the past two weeks in the wake of a soil slide near Crow River. Officials reported that a Public Waters Work Permit, mandated by state law, is the first step for recovery efforts, necessitating a review period from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
According to the latest update from the County, this critical review period is anticipated to be concluded by next week. Upon receiving comments, the department aims to, albeit quickly, start the repair process following approval. The dual-phase strategy involves an initial rapid response to reopen the region, followed by a long-term solution addressing the recurring flooding and associated closures.
Wright County is seeking to collaborate with a consultant to not only fix the present troubles but also explore options for raising the road level. This proactive measure could potentially mitigate future disturbances caused by the Crow River's tendency to breach its banks in response to heavy rains or melting snow.
Further updates will be dispensed, promising to lay out a clear timeline for the road's reopening. The Highway Department's commitment is to find a permanent fix and safeguard the route against those all too familiar annual disruptions. By engaging an expert consultant, the County hopes to securely position CSAH 36 beyond the reach of the river’s capricious floods.
