Board approves 66-foot right-of-way transfer to Park Rapids to extend road access

The board approved a staff recommendation to convey a 66-foot right-of-way to the City of Park Rapids that will allow the city to extend an internal road and improve access between the new Heartland Heights development area and Highway 34.

Mary, a staff member, explained the city’s plan: the extension would align with an existing road to the north (Finley Street) and allow additional access to Highway 34. “If you are willing to give up a 66-foot right of way… it would allow for the B road to be built all the way from the end of Finley Street and provide another access to Highway 34,” Mary said.

Board members asked about the transfer’s effect on the recently sold commercial parcel; staff clarified the 66 feet would come from the authority’s parcel and would not reduce the buyer’s lot. Several members raised safety and congestion concerns about adding more access points onto Highway 34; staff noted federal grant money included in the project budget and said the city is responsible for final traffic and safety decisions.

SH moved to approve the land transfer and David seconded the motion. The board approved the transfer by voice vote with no recorded opposition.

Staff said the transfer will facilitate planned development in the Heartland Heights area and that federal grant funding will cover the road work without assessing adjacent property owners.