This summer, Russell, Minnesota—a small city in Lyon County, Southwestern Minnesota, near Marshall—is in the spotlight on Minnesota Live’s Water Tower Wednesday, featured by KSTP Channel 5. Each week, the series highlights a different water tower across the state, and Russell’s bold red-and-white tower, completed in 2023, is this week’s star. Watch the KSTP-TV Minnesota Live feature below.
From 1935 to a New Era of Water Infrastructure
Russell’s original 50,000-gallon water tower, built in 1935, served the community for more than 86 years. But like many small-town towers in Minnesota, time caught up with it. Safety concerns, aging coatings, and regulatory compliance made replacement the best long-term option.
Community Choice and Modern Design
The City of Russell developed a plan not just to replace the tower, but to design a landmark that reflects community pride. Residents voted for the tower’s colors, choosing the striking red-and-white combo that now brightens the skyline.
The new 130-foot hydrocone tower was constructed by Maguire Iron and painted by Spiegel Sandblasting and Specialty Coatings in 2023. It includes modern systems to improve water quality year-round and reduce freezing risks in winter.
A Project Made Possible with Grants
One of the most remarkable aspects of Russell’s tower story is how it was funded. With the help of Bollig, the City of Russell was able to secure grants covering 79% of the $1.76 million project cost—making the project feasible for a community of Russell’s size, with a population of just 348.
More Than Just a Tower
The new water tower is part of Russell’s broader infrastructure improvements, which also include replacing watermains, upgrading lift stations, and addressing stormwater needs. Together, these updates are building a stronger, more resilient future for the city.
Quick Facts: Russell MN Water Tower
- Location: Russell, Lyon County, Southwestern Minnesota
- Year Built: 2023 (replaced 1935 tower)
- Design: 130-foot hydrocone, 50,000-gallon capacity
- Funding: $1.76 million project, 79% funded by grants
- Unique Feature: Community-voted red-and-white color combo
- Featured On: KSTP Channel 5 Minnesota Live – Water Tower Wednesday on 8/20/2025
Curious about other Minnesota Water Tower Projects?
Russell’s tower isn’t the only small-city project featured on Water Tower Wednesday. Other Minnesota water towers have also been highlighted, including:
Whether you spot it on Channel 5 or see it rising on the Russell skyline just off State Highway 23, this Minnesota water tower is more than infrastructure—it’s a symbol of resilience, planning, and hometown pride.
Is your community facing water tower or infrastructure challenges? Bollig Engineering helps small cities plan, fund, and build projects that last. Call us at 320-235-2555 or contact us online to get started.
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