OTTER TAIL COUNTY, Minn. – Otter Tail County is moving forward with plans to build a new highway garage in Parkers Prairie. The county has purchased land for the project between Highway 42 and Whispering Pines Street.

The next step is choosing an architect to design the building. The county is getting closer to making that choice. An architect proposal could go before the committee as soon as Tuesday, July 28.

The new garage will house the trucks, plows, and equipment that crews use to maintain roads in the Parkers Prairie area. It will replace the current facility and support snow removal, road repairs, and other services year-round. Plans also include a wash bay where crews can rinse salt, sand, and grime off the trucks. Regular washing prevents rust and helps trucks last longer.

“This project is long overdue. Parkers Prairie has needed a new highway garage for many years,” said Commissioner Bob Lahman, who represents District 4, which includes Parkers Prairie. “Our crews have done great work out of an aging building, but it no longer meets the needs. Buying this land is a big step toward giving them the space and tools they need to keep our roads safe.”

The county will share more details, including a project timeline, after an architect is selected.

For more information, visit ottertailcounty.gov.