Frequently Asked Questions

The City decides which roads to repave or rebuild based on their condition and other important factors. In general, roads in the worst shape are given top priority. But things like the road’s age, how much traffic it gets, how close it is to places like schools, and available funding also play a role.

While it might seem like the worst roads should always be fixed first, it's actually more cost-effective to maintain roads that are still in fair condition. That way, the City can prevent them from getting worse and needing expensive repairs later on.

To help make these decisions, the City uses something called an Overall Condition Index (OCI), which looks at things like cracks, potholes and surface wear. Using this system, the City creates a long-term maintenance plan that focuses on affordable, effective fixes and upgrades. Often, doing smaller repairs earlier can delay the need for major reconstruction, saving time and money.

Road construction can take a long time because there’s a lot that happens before crews even start working. The City has to plan the project, design it, talk with the public, and coordinate with other agencies and utility companies to move things like gas or water lines if needed.

Once construction starts, the timeline depends on how big and complex the project is. Things that can affect how long it takes include underground utility work, the condition of the current road, managing traffic and detours, working with private utility companies, and making sure everything passes inspections.

Details on upcoming projects can be found on the City of Lakeville website.

Residents can provide input by attending public meetings, participating in online surveys, and attending project workshops and open houses. Residents are initially notified of open houses through direct mail, social media and on the City's website. Following that, residents can choose to sign up for a project email list to receive updates. The public is also welcome to call our Engineering Division at 952-985-4500 to get more information or provide input on projects.

The City updates its Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) annually, providing an overview of all public improvements planned in upcoming years.

Right-of-way is a legal access granted to allow specific uses through land. In the City, the right-of-way is where roadways, utilities, trails and sidewalks, and City infrastructure are placed.

Public infrastructure includes storm sewers, sanitary sewer and watermain. Private utilities, such as natural gas lines, electrical cables and communication lines may also be present.

Drainage and utility easements are established around lots for drainage and access to utilities.

Flags or paint in your yard likely indicate planned construction or utility work. Utility companies mark the ground to avoid damaging existing lines during digging or construction. Buried fence lines (dog fences) and irrigation lines are not able to be located by private or public utility providers and are the responsibility of the property owner.

Contact Gopher State One Call via their website or call them at 811 to schedule them to locate and mark underground utilities before you excavate or dig on your property.

You can install sprinklers or a dog fence within private property outside of easements and right-of-way areas to avoid interference with future construction or utility work. Typically, these areas cover approximately the first 14 feet of your front yard, 5 feet on each side and 10 feet at the rear of your lot.

Multiple fiber optic companies work in the City to provide high-speed internet services to meet growing demand. Fiber companies in Minnesota have the legal right to access public rights-of-way and are encouraged to expand infrastructure, promoting competition and an open market.

The maximum driveway width is 28 feet per City standards.

A curb stop is a shut-off valve installed on your water service line, typically at the edge of your property’s easement. It allows the City or property owner to turn off water to the property in case of emergencies, repairs or maintenance.