Support our stores – Pelican Rapids
By Missy Hermes
Pelican Rapids is joining the growing number of lakes country communities getting upgraded roads. While the pavement projects might be painful at first, the light (and the roundabout) at the end of the tunnel will be worth it!
In fact, Pelican Rapids will be getting two roundabouts on their Main Street. Drawings of the finished design show a pedestrian-friendly downtown with safe crosswalks and easy access to local businesses and recreation locations such as the park, pool and post office. With the end goal in mind, business owners are counting on locals and tourism customers to continue supporting them as the construction process moves forward.
Moving vehicles forward is the goal of course. Drivers heading out on Hwy 108 will definitely notice a difference in traffic flow when the project is completed. No more long waits at the traffic light. The busy intersections full of lake and leaf lovers heading in and out of town will find that the new roundabouts assist rather than impede, while also modulating, speed. The setback crosswalks will keep pedestrians going on their way safely without obstructing motorists and cyclists.
In the meantime, shop and eatery owners are counting on customers to keep them up and running during the Complete Streets Project. Pelican Rapids leaders know that supporting local business owners is good business and they’re working to assist businesses through the project. Lana Grefsrud, owner of Hillbilly Laser in town, is leading a community group called Pelican Rapids: Find Your Path. She and her team plan to market businesses using economic development dollars and directing customers to business entrances with signage and maps.
The current road work is a speed bump for now but this community is looking ahead, encouraging you to find your path to Pelican Rapids.