'This is a great day for Braham': Groundbreaking ceremony held for first phase of water infrastructure project

Braham held a groundbreaking ceremony for the first phase of the city's water infrastructure project on Tuesday morning.

"We're getting new gas lines, new water lines, new sewer lines, and new streets, all with one project," said Braham mayor Nate George.

George said the city has received more than $13 million in outside funding for the project.

Included in that $13 million is $1 million secured from the federal government. 

"Just a lot of people involved in making this happen," George said. "It wouldn't have happened without every single one of them."

City engineer Jon Pauna, from Moore Engineering, said the work is going to be done in four phases. 

The first phase starts at Central Avenue and includes the northwest part of town.

"I hope people realize the magnitude of work that's really going to happen," Pauna said.

"There's going to be some disruption, there's no doubt. There's going to be some headaches and confusion for a few months, but the ultimate benefits when we get through this are going to be unbelievable."

City administrator Kevin Stahl will post a weekly update on the project on Braham's website and Facebook page.

Braham's legislative liaison James Robins said the city has shown a lot of unity and resolve to make the project a reality.

"Braham is unique," Robins said. "Be proud of your community, because I know you've tended to do things on your own, and you really stick up for each other and have done great stuff."

Robins added that it's "extremely rare" for a community of under 2,000 residents to get a state bonding request of over $10 million.

"You really needed it, and you came together, and the state saw it," he said.

Braham's city council members echoed George's enthusiasm for the project getting underway.

"I just think this is a great day for Braham," said council member Seth Zeltinger.

Council member Bob Knowles expressed his gratitude for the work beginning.

"It's been a long time coming," he said. "We've been passed over many times and not been able to fund this."

"History is being made today," added council member Nicole Peltz. "I'm extremely proud of our city and our community and administration for coming together and pushing for something. Like we've said, this is a pretty big accomplishment for our little town."