CSAH 71 Improvements, Cass County

The CSAH 71 improvement consists of approximately 7.3 miles of two-lane gravel road surrounding Ten Mile Lake and traverses partially through the Chippewa National Forest, along with a naturally wooded and wetland area. CSAH 71 has been identified as a National Preservation Route and has been monitored with close scrutiny by the residents, landowners, and recreationalists. The improvement includes upgrading CSAH 71 to an asphalt surface with two to four-foot shoulders. Special detail during the design process includes extra effort to conserve the environmentally sensitive and scenic qualities of the adjacent landscape.

WSB’s Right-of-Way Group worked closely with local residents and stakeholders to:

• Discuss project details including the impact on trees and natural ground
• Provide thorough written information on landscape plans, design, and safety
• Draft and present formal offers
• Provide negotiation and settlement acquisition for nine parcels in just three months
• Acquire all parcels through direct purchase (no condemnation required)
• Complete the acquisition process on time and under budget

County, State Aid, and Federal National Forest funds are being used to improve this stretch of road and trails.

Client: Cass County
Completion: July 2008