The County Highway Department is getting a new makeover. The original facility, built in 1980, needs additional space and modernization. Dodge County Highway Department staff is temporarily moving to the Dodge County Service Center, 42 E. Main St., Dodge Center, across Main Street from City Hall.

Staff members of the engineering and administration portions of the Highway Department will be moving to the County Service Center in mid-April. Phone numbers and email addresses for the employees will remain the same.

Those wishing to apply in person for driveway permits, chloride treatments, and new addresses or contractors seeking plans for bids may work with staff members at those temporary offices. Maintenance staff will be staged out of the east end of the old facility or the West Concord highway department facility, depending on their activity.

Remodeling of the Highway Department headquarters building has begun. The contractors have had a hard time getting the items needed for the construction of the facility, explained County Engineer, Guy Kohlnhofer.

The renovation of the facility includes modernization of the HVAC system, (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), bathrooms and insulation. A new fire suppression system, an employee breakroom, lockers and added security will also be added. The construction includes upgrading the fuel station, the addition of a dedicated wash bay, two truck bays, a larger pull-through bay, and an additional cold storage building.

Completion of the renovation is expected sometime near the end of the year.