DETROIT LAKES PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY

Detroit Lakes’ public works operations, previously spread across multiple inadequate facilities, were consolidated into a 50,320-square-foot, $9,950,000 site following a study of equipment, space, and staffing needs. Oertel Architects collaborated with the Becker County Highway Department to identify cost-saving opportunities through shared resources such as a fuel island, salt storage building, and stormwater management systems.

The final design features separate main buildings for the city and county, with shared outbuildings, drive access, and site amenities—streamlining operations while meeting the unique needs of both departments. The project was completed in the fall of 2024.