MARSHALL, Minn. — From a major summer construction milestone to long-term park planning and infrastructure upgrades, Marshall Mayor Bob Byrnes covered a wide range of city developments during a recent interview with Marshall Radio.
Aquatic Center on Track for Mid-Summer Opening
One of the most anticipated projects in the city continues to make steady progress. Construction on Marshall’s new aquatic center began just under a year ago, and Byrnes said contractors have remained on schedule, even through winter conditions.
“There’s really a lot of work and the contractors have done just an outstanding job in keeping things on schedule,” Byrnes said.
While much of the winter work has taken place inside the facility, focusing on carpentry, flooring, windows, and extensive mechanical systems, the outdoor features have also taken shape. Water slides were installed in January, and shade structures and splash pad elements are now visible.
The project’s complexity is significant, Byrnes noted, pointing out that roughly 2.5 miles of piping run throughout the site, all connecting to a central mechanical system of pumps and heaters.
Originally expected to open in early August, the timeline has now been moved up.
“The official word is to be kind of ambiguous… but we’re really saying midsummer,” Byrnes said. “I’m sure it’s going to be July.”
In the meantime, the city plans to open the existing outdoor pool around Memorial Day for a limited season before transitioning to the new facility.
Old Pool to Be Removed, Future Use Undecided
Once the new aquatic center opens, the current pool will be decommissioned and removed. That process includes draining chemicals, demolishing the structure, and leveling the site.
What comes next for the space is still undecided, and intentionally so.
“My view is, you know, let’s just take our time,” Byrnes said. “We’ll remove the former pool… and then really get lots of good community input rather than just… the first thing that comes up.”
Potential ideas discussed include pickleball courts, expanded green space, or an arboretum-style setting. Byrnes added that the site may also incorporate portions of an oversized parking lot nearby.
Comprehensive Park Plan Near Completion
The future of the old pool site ties into a broader parks strategy. The city is nearing completion of a comprehensive park plan developed with the Southwest Regional Development Commission.
Marshall maintains about a dozen parks, each serving different roles, from regional destinations like Independence Park to specialized spaces like the archery range or dog park.
“We really need to kind of utilize all of our parks,” Byrnes said, noting that new amenities should not automatically default to the largest locations.
The plan also includes ongoing upgrades to park equipment. Playground equipment at the former softball complex, now transitioning into a soccer-focused area, will be replaced this year.
Bandshell Replacement Planned for 2027
Another major park-related project involves the aging bandshell at Liberty Park, a well-known local landmark built in 1951.
Although it may still be used this summer, Byrnes said the structure is no longer safe long term.
“It’s structurally deficient… it’s at risk of falling down,” he said.
Engineers have determined the bandshell cannot be repaired due to foundation issues and structural deterioration, including rotting wood and visible cracking.
The city has already secured nearly $500,000 in funding through the Minnesota Historical Society and received an additional $100,000 commitment from the Rotary via the Ted Rowe Endowment.
Design work is underway now, with construction planned for 2027. A community advisory committee will help guide both the design and future uses of the space.
“We want it to be really a well-used facility,” Byrnes said. “That really comes down to the design of it.”
Tree Replacement Efforts Continue
Marshall is also continuing its proactive response to the spread of emerald ash borer. To date, the city has removed more than 500 ash trees from public spaces, out of approximately 2,000 originally located on city property.
A state grant requires the city to plant two trees for every one removed.
Replacement species include oak, hackberry, and linden trees, selected for their suitability to the region’s climate and soil conditions.
“We don’t want to go through this again,” Byrnes said, explaining the city is avoiding overplanting any single species, such as maple.
Programs are also available to assist homeowners with tree removal and replacement costs.
Water Softener Rebates Aim to Reduce Chlorides
The city is addressing water quality concerns as well, particularly chloride levels entering the Redwood River through wastewater discharge.
One major contributor is salt from residential water softeners. In response, Marshall is offering a $500 rebate for residents who upgrade or remove outdated systems.
The city has already reduced water hardness significantly, from as high as 40 to 50 grains down to about 7 grains, through pre-treatment processes.
“It really does… [mean] a savings there also in the amount of salt that you’re buying,” Byrnes said.
Residents interested in the rebate program can contact City Hall to get started.
Highway 19 Project Enters More Disruptive Phase
Infrastructure improvements remain another key focus. The Highway 19 reconstruction project is entering its second year, with work expected to begin within weeks.
“This will be a project that you probably will get underway within a month,” Byrnes said.
The project stretches from Highway 59 near Memorial Park to Bruce Street and will involve extensive underground work, including utility replacement, water mains, sewer systems, and stormwater upgrades.
Byrnes cautioned that this phase will be more disruptive than the first due to increased traffic, businesses, and residential areas along the route.
Reflecting on Decades of Service
Byrnes, who has served as mayor for more than three decades, is believed to be the longest-serving current mayor in Minnesota. He said the role has reinforced the importance of long-term thinking and humility in public service.
“You need to have a kind of a sense of humility,” he said. “You don’t always make a lot of friends… but as long as you keep the focus on what’s right in the long term… that’s kind of been my mantra.”
