Marshall, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Marshall is experiencing significant delays in paving work at the West College Drive and Saratoga Street intersection due to the ongoing construction of a new energy center. This closure is especially impactful for families as local schools are about to resume. The intersection has been closed to vehicle traffic, and a safe crossing path for schoolchildren is planned. The construction, part of a broader project to improve traffic flow, is expected to wrap up in the coming weeks, although current conditions may result in further delays.
Marshall is facing delays in paving work at the intersection of West College Drive and Saratoga Street as the new energy center project progresses. With the start of classes at local schools fast approaching, this interruption is particularly significant for families and motorists in the community.
The intersection has been closed to vehicle traffic following the commencement of concrete paving work last week. Excavators are currently preparing a trench for utility line placement near the National Guard Armory, while utility and grading work continues in the area where a roundabout is being constructed. R and G Construction has been in touch with Marshall Public Schools regarding the ongoing intersection work to ensure safety and communication with the school community.
Although concrete road surface work at the intersection is set to commence on Monday at 6:30 a.m., it is currently unlikely that the intersection will be open to traffic by the time classes resume at Southview Elementary and Marshall Middle School on Wednesday. To assist with the increased pedestrian traffic from schoolchildren, there are plans to implement a safe crossing path, complete with marked areas and a firm surface to promote safety for those walking to school.
Scott Mathiowetz, a representative from R and G Construction, indicated that the integration of the intersection with surrounding streets is scheduled to be completed within one to two weeks, depending on weather conditions. Meanwhile, Erika Coudron from R and G Construction is preparing to be on-site at the intersection to help children adjust to their new crossing routes as the school year gets underway.
The construction at the West College Drive and Saratoga Street intersection is a part of a larger project overseen by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, which involves the construction of a roundabout at the three-way intersection near the National Guard Armory. This project will improve traffic flow and safety in the area as crews neared completion on the installation of water and sewer lines.
In addition to the construction at the intersection, grading work is ongoing, with the next phase of concrete paving anticipated to begin next week if weather conditions permit. Following this phase, a fourth and final stage of construction on College Drive between Legion Field and Fourth Street is planned for the fall, although there will be a slight delay between the end of the current stage and the beginning of the last phase.
Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes during this construction period, as much of the traffic will be diverted away from the West College Drive and Saratoga Street intersection. Highway 19 detours are currently in place via Lyon County Road 7 and Minnesota Highway 23, while some segments of the road remain accessible for local traffic.
The overarching reason for these disruptions ties into the recently initiated Marshall Energy Center project, which kicked off with a groundbreaking ceremony on July 22. This $175 million energy initiative, part of the Missouri Public Utility Alliance’s “Building MO Power” drive, will see the installation of four natural gas turbines in two phases, expected to be operational by 2026 and fully completed by 2029. When finished, this facility will generate significant electricity capable of sustaining three cities the size of Marshall—134 megawatts in winter and 99 megawatts in summer. This project is not only expected to enhance the reliability of the electric grid but also aims to maintain affordable energy costs for residents and businesses. Additionally, local collaboration on this project promises to create jobs and support infrastructure development, ultimately leading to stronger community vitality.
FAQ
What is the current status of the construction at the intersection of West College Drive and Saratoga Street?
Currently, the intersection is closed to vehicle traffic for concrete paving work, and it is unlikely to reopen before the start of school next week.
What safety measures are being implemented for children crossing the intersection?
There will be marked paths for children to safely cross the intersection, with a hard surface to ensure their safety.
When is the next phase of concrete paving scheduled to begin?
The next phase of concrete paving is anticipated to begin next week, depending on weather conditions.
What is the goal of the Marshall Energy Center project?
The goal of the Marshall Energy Center project is to enhance the reliability of the electric grid while maintaining affordable energy costs for residents and businesses.
When is the Marshall Energy Center expected to be operational?
The energy center is planned to be operational in two phases, starting around 2026 and concluding by 2029.
Key Features of Current Construction Projects
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Intersection Work | Paving delays at West College Drive and Saratoga Street |
| Safety Measures | Marked paths for safe pedestrian crossings |
| Phase Timeline | Next phase of concrete paving expected next week |
| Marshall Energy Center | $175 million project aimed at enhancing grid reliability |
| Operational Dates | Expected to be operational from 2026 to 2029 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Marshall Independent: Construction Work Continues on Saratoga Intersection
- KOMU: Natural Gas Energy Facility Set to Break Ground in Marshall
- Marshall News: New Marshall Energy Center Celebrated with Groundbreaking Ceremony
- Wikipedia: Marshall, Missouri
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marshall, Missouri
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
