Frequently Asked General Construction Questions
What kind of activity can I expect during construction?
Construction activity will include removal of pavement topsoil and excavation for road or ditch grading, general grading throughout the right of way, and deep utility excavations for the sanitary sewer and water mains and services. Construction is tedious, and we understand it can get old quickly. At times, it may even seem like not much is getting done. Remember, patience is the biggest asset that each of you bring to the job. If you keep in mind the fact that this project will be completed, hopefully construction will seem to go faster for you!
What is the difference between reconstruction and resurfacing?
Reconstruction rebuilds the street from the ground up and often includes storm sewer, water main, sanitary sewer, sidewalk, and curb improvements.
Resurfacing simply replaces the top layer of asphalt. A reconstruction project is more extensive, longer in duration, and addresses underlying structural issues.
How long will the project take?
Highway 95 Project will occur in 2026 and 2027. See Highway 95 Project page for project areas and detours
The 2026 Street Project will occur from May to November
What hours will construction crews be working?
Most crews work 7:00 AM-7:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend work if needed. Work hours follow local ordinances and state regulations.
Will I have access to my home or business during construction?
Yes, but access may be temporarily restricted during certain phases such as utility installation, curb/gutter construction, or paving. The contractor will provide advance notice before major disruptions.
Will the street be closed?
It depends, some streets will be closed for construction, others will be open during construction. Check the Highway 95 and 2026 Street Project pages for specific street impacts, detours, and schedules. Usually, streets may be closed to through traffic but typically remain open to local traffic (residents, deliveries, emergency vehicles). Detours will be marked when needed.
What about mail, garbage, and delivery services?
Coordination occurs with USPS, garbage haulers, and delivery companies. Temporary pickup points may be established if a block is fully closed.
You will continue to place your garbage and recycling containers at the usual location as normal until further notice. The General Contractor will collect and get them as necessary to a location where the garbage and recycling company can dispose of the items. Please place your bins near the street the night before pickup so that the contractor can relocate them at the start of their day. If moved, the contractor will then bring your container back to your regular location. Please mark your address number and street on your container.
Will my water or sewer service be interrupted?
Short, planned interruptions will occur during utility connections or during water main shutdowns. Residents will receive advance notice for planned outages. Emergency shutoffs may happen in rare situations. Most of the homes and businesses along Highway 95 will be placed on a temporary water system at some point during the project as the existing water mains and services are replaced under Highway 95. The Dellwood Steet S. and Willow Wood Neighborhood of the 2026 Street Project will be placed on temporary water system. Advanced notice will be given.
Are private utility lines (gas, electric, cable) affected?
Private utilities for the most part have already relocated their facilities in advance of the project. There may be some relocations/service interruptions during construction.
What will happen to the landscaping, retaining wall blocks, or planters that are near the road?
The Contractor will remove any special landscaping located within the right-of-way. They are not required to protect items within the right of way or easement. If you wish to have items within the road right of way saved, please remove the items. The intent is to remove these features if they are within the project limits. The Contractor will not reinstall any landscaping removed from the right-of-way or easement areas.
What will happen to my irrigation/sprinkler system during construction?
Due to nature of the project, it is anticipated there may be impacts to irrigation systems adjacent to project streets and trails. Property owners who have an irrigation system are encouraged to mark their sprinkler heads and to contact a member of the team onsite to inquire about potential impacts. It may be necessary to temporarily remove a portion of your irrigation system within the public right-of-way or public easement area. In most cases, the City and Contractor will restore any damaged components to irrigation systems in conjunction with turf restoration work near the end of the project.
How will the turf areas disturbed by construction be restored?
The Contractor will repair the disturbed areas of your yard/property with topsoil and seed. As the project progresses, it is essential that you water the new seed regularly to help it establish. The Contractor is required to water and maintain the seed for a specific period of time after it has been placed to ensure growth. Most Contractors do this with a tanker truck and hose, which means water is applied quickly in one or two passes every few days. The Contractor will give you a product that will grow, but it will not be perfect. It is essential that you water the new seed regularly if you want a lush, green, well-established lawn.
What about dust, noise, and vibration?
Construction generates noise and dust, but the contractor is required to minimize impacts (e.g., watering for dust control, following noise regulations). Some vibrations are normal during excavation or compaction. The contract provides for the Contractor to spread water on the road to help keep dust from creating an unsafe environment. However, this is an imperfect solution and will not solve the problem completely.
Will the project affect my driveway?
Driveways may be temporarily removed and replaced if they conflict with new curb, sidewalk, or grading. Temporary access solutions will be provided.
Who do I contact if I have an invisible fence for my animal?
If you have Invisible Dog Fences near the road or the edge of your property, please mark them with flags to notify the Contractor of their presence. In addition, notify staff onsite of any of these features. Please reach out to a representative from SEH to alert them of the presence of fences.
When can I drive on the new pavement or use my driveway?
Concrete curb and driveway aprons generally need 5-7 days to cure before driving. Asphalt streets may be driven on within a few hours, depending on temperature.
Who do I contact with questions or concerns during construction?
See Contact Information tab or the Highway 95 and 2026 Street Project pages for contract information.
