By Emma Nelson
Stillwater is buzzing with activity this year—from traffic and road upgrades to parks, safety measures, and public amenities. Here’s a look at key ongoing initiatives and what neighbors can expect.
Construction and Infrastructure Improvements
Several city and county road projects are either underway or recently completed. The County Highway 5 (Olive Street) Phase 4 Improvement Project is working on pedestrian and traffic upgrades from Deer Path to Highway 96. Motorists should expect detours for eastbound traffic and narrowed roadway widths to enhance safety. At least one side of parking will be preserved, and a turf boulevard will improve walkability and utilities placement.
Meanwhile, Stillwater’s own Street Improvement Project for 2026 is underway, with Myrtle Street, water service replacements, and intersection studies among its components.
Public Works & Parks: Behind the Scenes
The Public Works Department is active across multiple fronts—repairing, patching and plowing about 90 miles of streets; maintaining sewers and park space; and updating over 3,000 traffic signs. Their goals include making sure streets are passable within 12 hours after a snow event and keeping up with street sweeping and park maintenance cycles.
Public messaging also reminds residents of ways to help—the importance of shoveling sidewalks, keeping leaves and yard waste off streets, picking up after pets, and abiding by winter parking rules. Small actions, big impact.
Planning, Community Input & Safety
Stillwater is conducting an intersection study for Washington Avenue and the Frontage Road to assess how traffic flows, pedestrian safety, and access might be improved here. Ideas being explored include redesigns and concept alternatives aimed at better safety and circulation.
Also, new ordinances are in the works around certain uses of public space and infrastructure. One example: the Council has moved forward with first reading of an ordinance that would prohibit virtual currency kiosks, citing concerns over unregulated use and scams.
What Residents Should Know
- Expect changes in travel routes with construction—allow extra time if you drive through areas like Olive Street or Myrtle Street.
- Attend public hearings and open houses to offer feedback—many project plans need community input to succeed.
- Check city resources and alerts when the roads are being maintained or snow incidents hit—the city aims to clear and respond quickly, but timing can vary.
- Stay informed about zoning and land-use ordinances—they can affect what kinds of businesses or services are allowed where you live.
Looking Ahead
Across Stillwater, whether you ride, walk, drive, or relax by the river, these projects are shaping the experience of our streets and public spaces. We’ll keep watching how these efforts move forward, and how they impact daily life in our community.