News Summary
Construction initiatives in Baxter, including infrastructure improvements on Audubon Way and the Design Road enhancement project, aim to boost local growth. Additionally, various grants are supporting business development in Jackson, helping local establishments expand and renovate. These efforts reflect a commitment to enhance community livability and economic vitality in the region.
Baxter and Jackson Areas See Construction Projects and Grant Funding to Boost Local Growth
Starting Tuesday, September 2, construction activities will begin on Audubon Way in Baxter, with impacts on local traffic and ongoing infrastructure improvements. Meanwhile, the Design Road project remains underway, aiming to address flooding issues and enhance water management. Additionally, several grants awarded to local businesses are fueling economic growth in the Jackson area.
Construction on Audubon Way in Baxter
Construction work on Audubon Way, located off Highway 371 North in Baxter, is scheduled to commence on September 2. The project plans to improve the road’s infrastructure over the next seven to eight weeks. Despite construction, Audubon Way will generally remain open for local traffic, although temporary closures may be necessary for specific activities. Motorists are advised to stay alert to new sign postings and potential road changes during this period.
For questions or concerns about the project, residents can contact Widseth Project Engineer Alex Bitter at 218-316-3627 or via email at alex.bitter@widseth.com. City officials have expressed their appreciation for the community’s patience as these improvements are carried out, emphasizing the importance of these updates for local infrastructure and traffic flow.
Design Road Improvement Project in Baxter
Since August 20, 2025, crews have been working on Design Road in Baxter to enhance flood mitigation and water management. The project involves relocating and expanding a storm pipe to a 60-inch diameter and reducing the road width to 36 feet. These changes aim to increase durability and support higher traffic volumes, with a focus on preventing floodwaters from inundating the west side of Highway 371.
Part of the project’s purpose is to improve runoff water management by directing excess water into the Whiskey Creek system. This process is intended to help clean contaminated water accumulated in Baxter’s commercial district before it eventually reaches the Mississippi River. The overall project is funded primarily through federal and state sources, totaling around $3 million.
Grants Supporting Local Business Growth in Jackson
In addition to infrastructure investments, several local businesses in Jackson have benefited from grants aimed at fostering economic development. Funding has been awarded by organizations including Fluor-BWXT and the Joint Economic Development Initiative of Southern Ohio (JEDISO). These grants are helping businesses expand, renovate, and improve their facilities to attract new customers and create jobs.
Holy Grounds Coffee, a women-owned coffee shop that transitioned from a food truck to a storefront, received a grant of $7,500. The funds are designated for purchasing new equipment and hiring four additional employees. Kevin Baxter, owner of the building housing Holy Grounds, received a $25,750 grant to renovate the upper floors into residential units.
Another recipient, Evan Massie of EGM Construction Services, was awarded $20,000 for renovating a Broadway Street building into a combination of professional office space and residential units. The redevelopment of Broadway Street, which features historic buildings dating back to the 1800s, has contributed to recent revitalization efforts in the area.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
Community leaders note that renovating older buildings not only improves the area’s aesthetic appeal but also creates new opportunities for business and residential growth. These efforts are part of broader plans to enhance the local economy and infrastructure, making Baxter and Jackson more attractive to residents and visitors alike.
Additional Information
For more details about JEDISO programs and grants, community members can visit www.choosesouthernohio.com or call 740-286-2838. Information regarding Fluor-BWXT initiatives is available at www.fbportsmouth.com or by calling 740-987-2432.
The ongoing projects and grants underscore a shared commitment to improving infrastructure, boosting local economies, and enhancing community livability across the Baxter and Jackson areas.
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Additional Resources
- Brainerd Dispatch: Design Road Project Continues in Baxter
- Wikipedia: Baxter, Minnesota
- Vinton Jackson Courier: FBX and JEDISO Provide Funding in Jackson County
- Google Search: Baxter Minnesota news
- KSL TV: Construction at Hyrum Dam Spillway
- Encyclopedia Britannica: City
- Hville Blast: Honda Dealership in Decatur New Building Permits
- Google News: Jackson County business growth
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