By Rich Larson
A series of public works upgrades and emerging commercial development projects are signaling continued growth and investment in the City of Dundas, according to City Administrator Jenelle Teppen.
At a recent city council meeting, officials appointed Aaron Little as Dundas’ new public works director, marking what Teppen described as a “new era” for the department following the retirement of longtime director Duane Meliza after more than 40 years of service. Little, who had been preparing for the role in recent years, is expected to bring fresh ideas while continuing to modernize operations through new technology and updated processes.
Beyond staffing changes, the city is advancing several infrastructure improvements typical of the busy summer construction season. Road maintenance is underway, including spray patching in targeted areas to preserve street conditions. Sanitary sewer cleaning will continue throughout the summer on a rolling basis, while a major repair project on Schilling Drive is expected to temporarily close a portion of the roadway for up to two weeks in August. The project includes sewer repairs and repaving, along with the creation of improved access to the nearby Menards store.
Sidewalk repairs are also expanding under a newer city policy that shifts responsibility for maintenance away from property owners and onto the municipality. Crews have begun work downtown, with plans to address additional neighborhoods in future years.
Meanwhile, work continues on the highly anticipated Dundas Commons commercial development. The city council approved the final plat for the five-lot project located on the north side of County Road 1 near Highway 3. Demolition of the existing Johnson-Ryland building is expected soon, making way for new commercial construction. While interest from potential businesses has been reported, Teppen noted that no formal development applications have been submitted yet. The project also includes ongoing coordination with the City of Northfield on stormwater infrastructure.
Additional investments include new playground equipment planned for Tower Park in the Bridgewater Heights neighborhood, with installation anticipated later this year.
Taken together, these efforts reflect steady growth in Dundas, as city leaders balance infrastructure upkeep with new opportunities for commercial expansion.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
