By Emma Nelson
Major Infrastructure Projects Underway
Stillwater is seeing several significant construction efforts this year through the city’s engineering department. These include the 2026 Street Improvement Project, ongoing replacement of galvanized water service lines, a Myrtle Street overhaul, and utility work like Xcel Energy’s line replacement on Hickory Street W and 4th Street N. These public works aim to improve roads, water reliability, and safety.
These project updates are available online via the city’s engineering construction projects page.
Note: Road closures and detours are periodically announced; it’s best to register for email alerts from the city to stay informed.
The Lift Bridge and Traffic in the Downtown Riverfront
The Stillwater Lift Bridge—connecting Minnesota and Wisconsin over the St. Croix River—has resumed its regular lift schedule for the season. From early May through mid-October, the bridge is staffed daily from 8 a.m. to midnight and opens for marine traffic when needed. Outside this span, opening requests still require advance notice. Evenings and weekends tend to see heavier delays from both river and road traffic.
Being aware of the lifting schedule and timing travel across the bridge accordingly helps avoid unexpected wait times.
Considering Limits on Festival Growth
With growth in attendance at events like Lumberjack Days and Harvest Fest, some Stillwater residents and officials are pushing for more balanced growth. Concerns include noise, traffic congestion, and the feel of downtown spaces being overwhelmed on large event days.
The City Council is discussing whether to limit the number or scale of permitted events to better protect livability in historic neighborhoods. At the same time, many value the vitality and economic benefits these events bring—including revenue for local shops and restaurants.
Sustainability, Trails & Mobility Initiatives
Stillwater’s moving ahead with several longer-term community planning efforts focused on sustainable transportation and environmental quality. Key initiatives include expanding bike-friendly lanes and pedestrian accessibility, adding electric vehicle charging stations, and supporting rain gardens and green infrastructure. These projects are meant to improve safety, reduce stormwater problems, and offer more transportation choices other than cars.
How to Stay Informed and Get Involved
- Attend or stream City Council and commission meetings—agendas and video archives are publicly available on the city’s website.
- Sign up for project updates via the City’s notification system, especially for street improvement alerts and lift bridge scheduling.
- Reach out to council members when you have feedback on event policy, downtown planning, or mobility initiatives.
Stillwater is balancing growth, preservation, and quality of life. With infrastructure work set to continue and community voices growing in influence, the coming months will be telling in how the city charts its path forward.