The city of Dickinson has successfully completed significant road construction projects valued at approximately $21 million in 2025. This initiative aimed to enhance traffic safety and accommodate future growth, marking a pivotal step in the city’s infrastructure development. The city engineer and community development director, Joshua Skluzacek, provided insights into the various projects undertaken throughout the year.
In total, the city executed eight major projects, with general road maintenance representing the largest portion of the budget at $7.1 million. This work was entirely funded through local sources. Additional projects benefited from federal, state, and grant funding, which is often limited and time-sensitive. The timing of these projects is influenced by the city’s eligibility for such funding.
One notable project was the upgrade of traffic signals on Highway 22, which received substantial financial backing. Federal funds contributed $1.5 million, while state funds added $0.4 million, covering 95% of the total estimated cost of nearly $2 million. Community input played a crucial role in preserving the traffic signal on Third Street near Berg Elementary, demonstrating the city’s commitment to public engagement.
Sims Street also underwent significant improvements, with a $5 million facelift from 2nd Street to 9th Street. This project was financed through a combination of funding sources: local funds exceeding $2 million, grants and donations totaling $959,700, and loans covering the remaining $2 million. Furthermore, the city undertook water main replacements costing $1.5 million and lead line replacements at $115,000. Skluzacek emphasized the city’s proactive approach, noting that loans for these projects are forgivable at a rate of 75%.
Four projects qualified for grant funding, with the most substantial being the water main replacement work, which received over $2.1 million. Other projects included the lead line replacement at $0.4 million and the DHS water main extension at $0.2 million. According to Skluzacek, the favorable weather conditions contributed to the timely completion of all projects.
Residents can access the city’s 2025 and 2026 budget documents on the official website under the Government and Financial tabs. As the construction season wraps up, the city plans to highlight other departmental achievements in the coming months. A preview of the 2026 road construction projects will follow in the spring, continuing the city’s commitment to infrastructure improvement.
Carter Fong, the Marketing and Events Director for the City of Dickinson, invites feedback and questions from the community at [email protected].
