By Rich Larson
Northfield Public Works is preparing to launch the third and final phase of its 2026 Mill and Overlay and Mill Towns State Trail Improvements Project, bringing roadway resurfacing, trail construction, sidewalk additions, and pedestrian safety upgrades to several key areas on the city’s west side.
Phase 3 centers on Jefferson Parkway from Division Street (Highway 246) to Wilcox Boulevard East. During construction, the corridor will remain open to local traffic only. Motorists traveling through the area will be detoured via Division Street, Woodley Street, and Maple Street.
The project is designed to extend the life of city streets while making travel safer and more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists. Work will include mill-and-overlay resurfacing on Maple Street between Meadow View Drive and Jefferson Parkway, Maple Court, Prairie Street between Meadow View Drive and Jefferson Parkway, and Jefferson Parkway from Division Street to Spring Creek Road.
In addition to roadway improvements, the city will install a new sidewalk on the east side of Prairie Street from Lia Drive to Prairie View Court. New off-street trail segments will also be constructed along the north side of Jefferson Parkway, helping expand the Mill Towns State Trail network.
A major component of the project is a new Mill Towns State Trail connection stretching from Division Street to Spring Creek Road. The trail will run along the south side of Jefferson Parkway before crossing to the north through Spring Creek Park.
Numerous pedestrian crossing improvements are also planned at intersections throughout the project area, including Maple Street and Meadow View Drive; Jefferson Parkway at Washington Street, Maple Street, Prairie Street, Michigan Drive, Sibley View Trail, Afton Drive, Bunker Drive East and West, Wilcox Boulevard East and West, and the Spring Creek Park Trail.
The city noted that Phases 1 and 2 of the project are already underway and reminded motorists to use caution in work zones, reduce speeds, and never drive around barricades or traffic-control devices.
Residents can find project information and sign up for construction updates online at northfieldmn.gov/2026Project.
Rich Larson is the owner and general Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net.
