The City of Chanhassen released an educational video explaining its road reconstruction process as part of its pavement management plan series. The city manages approximately 119 miles of streets and reviews all city roads every three years to prioritize maintenance and construction based on available funding.

Reconstruction represents the most comprehensive road rehabilitation technique used by the city, involving complete removal and replacement of existing roadways. The process can include replacing asphalt pavement, aggregate base, curb and gutter, and sidewalks or trails if not previously present. Additional infrastructure such as sand subsection, drain tile, and public utilities may also be installed or inspected for replacement during reconstruction projects.

The city typically uses reconstruction when existing pavement shows significant deterioration and scores below 40 on the Overall Condition Index, a zero to 100-point scale used to rate road health. However, other engineering factors may influence the selection process beyond the OCI rating system.

Unlike full-depth reclamation, another rehabilitation technique covered in the city's video series, reconstruction involves more extensive improvements including utility reconstruction, subbase and subgrade replacement, and safety enhancements such as curb and gutter additions. The method is reserved for roads that have reached the end of their life cycle.

The reconstruction process represents a significant investment in Chanhassen's transportation network, with the maintenance and rehabilitation cycle beginning again once projects are completed. Residents can find more information about ongoing projects at chanhassenm.gov/pros.