I hope that everyone had a good start to the New Year. I always enjoy taking a moment to look at the past year and what is coming with the New Year. It always gives a good perspective to reflect on accomplishments.
In 2019, Garretson experienced much growth. There were $3.8 million dollars in improvements to existing structures. Residential new construction was $1.69 million dollars. New commercial and industrial construction was $1.22 million dollars. That is a total of $6.71 million dollars of construction in our community. A new residential development was started in the south side of town that will increase residential growth in the coming years. Water and sewer infrastructure improvements were made in the area of the industrial park. These water and sewer improvements will allow for more growth on 5th Street and inside the industrial park.
Who can forget about the biggest happening of 2019? The opening of the community’s new daycare center. The new daycare is incredibly important. Quality childcare in a nice facility opens up our community to young and growing families. The daycare also demonstrates what can be accomplished with vision.
The biggest goal for this coming summer is to complete the 3rd Street/Truck Route construction project. Last summer phase 1 was completed. This summer Main Street and the Truck Route will be completed. Unfortunately this project has not gone as initially planned. A final walk through with the bond company, engineering firm and potential contractors will happen this week. From there, bidding will start from the contractors. As difficult as this has been, it will be nice to have a new Main Avenue.
Another new project that will be starting is the rehabilitation of the 5th Street Bridge. The bridge had load limits placed on it last summer and construction is set to start this summer. The hinges, joints, and deck will all be replaced. The cost to the city will be approximately $100,000. The majority of the cost will be covered by a grant from the state for infrastructure improvements. There are only two bridges of this type in SD, with the other being in Redfield. It is definitely a beautiful bridge and worth saving. Once the construction is complete, the load limits will be removed.
I am proud of what we have accomplished as a community this last year. The council and I, as Mayor, are committed to growth. This is a very exciting time for our community. We will continue to strive to improve and develop our great community. Thank you and I hope that everyone has a great New Year.
