Work has resumed on New Rockford's water infrastructure project: Here's what residents need to know

BEK Consulting settled in for a full season of work on the water main replacement in New Rockford this past week. The New Rockford City Commission held a special meeting Thursday to discuss protocols that will minimize risk to the public amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Residents should be aware up front that BEK does have out-of-state crew members working on the project. However, it should be noted that the workers are exempt from the governor's executive order to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival from other states, because infrastructure projects are deemed "essential" services. There is no order in place that prohibits them from working.

That said, city officials sought to clarify what precautions BEK should be implementing to keep their workers and residents safe and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

"We don't by any means want to stop anything, but we are concerned." said Commissioner Stu Richter.

After discussion, commissioners outlined the following procedures that BEK should implement:

• All workers will have their temperature taken twice daily and recorded on a log. The log will be shared with Jeff Douty of Interstate Engineering daily.

• Any worker with a fever or other symptoms will be sent back to his or her place of lodging to self-isolate as per the requirements and get tested for COVID-19 as appropriate. Interstate Engineering and city officials will be notified immediately should a worker present symptoms. Each worker does have his or her own room and shower, per BEK Foreman Wayne Kern, so self-isolation on site is possible.

• Workers will wear face masks in public and in work situations where they are not able to stay 6 feet apart.

• Certain employees will be designated to enter stores and pick up meals for the crew to reduce contact with the public.

"If we proceed with a little common sense and follow the guidelines we should be fine," said Rob Bartz, Project Manager for BEK Consulting.

Residents will receive letters from BEK through postal mail in lieu of fliers on their doors to notify them when work is imminent. City public works staff will conduct any in-person communication with residents.

Up to date information regarding progress on the water main replacement project is available at http://www.interstateeng.com/newrockford/.