FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 19, 2016
Contact: Joe Ellickson, Public Works Department
joe.ellickson@ci.stpaul.mn.us
651-266-6129 (office) 651-724-8443 (cell)
Jackson Street construction begins
Xcel Energy will begin the first phase of construction starting on Monday, February 22.
Saint Paul, MINN – The Saint Paul Department of Public Works announced today that Xcel Energy will begin construction work related to the Jackson Street reconstruction project on Monday, February 22. The plans for Jackson Street include full replacement of all city infrastructure and the inclusion of new bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
The intersection of Kellogg Boulevard and Jackson Street will be closed, starting on Monday, February 22. This closure will mark the first phase of construction on Jackson Street. The initial closure will be for 10 weeks to allow Xcel Energy to safely complete advanced utility work. It is anticipated that the intersection will be closed for an additional eight weeks after the first phase and then have partial closures throughout the 2016 construction season. Crews intend to reopen the Jackson Street connection from Kellogg Boulevard to Shepard Road by the end of summer.
The project will change the face of Jackson Street and make Downtown Saint Paul a more vibrant place to live, work, and shop. Jackson Street will be a Complete Street to better serve pedestrians, bikers, commuters and drivers for the next 50 years.
Last reconstructed 50 years ago, Jackson Street is one of the last remaining Terrible 20 streets in Saint Paul. In addition to reconstructing the street, crews will replace a 135-year-old water main, replace electrical and gas distribution lines, and update fiber optic cables. Reconstruction will be complex, due to the location and intricacy of working in downtown Saint Paul.
Saint Paul Public Works and Xcel Energy have developed a comprehensive traffic plan to mitigate impacts, implement detours and ultimately maximize traffic flow around the closure. Signs to direct pedestrians and drivers will appear on Monday, February 22. See the map below for suggested alternative routes.
Construction crews and planners are thanking residents and visitors in advance for their patience during this complicated construction project.
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