County Highway Department completes 20 miles of paving and stays under budget

Sullivan County's Public Works Committee recently reported significant progress on local infrastructure projects, highlighting a successful paving season and ongoing maintenance efforts that directly benefit residents.

As of mid-July, the county's paving program is approximately 60% complete, with 20 miles of roads already paved and another 14 to 15 miles scheduled for completion in the coming month. The county's contract paver will temporarily shift operations to Orange County, but local crews are prepared to resume work shortly.

In addition to paving, the county has successfully completed its chip sealing program ahead of the July 4 deadline, finishing about $200,000 under budget. Similarly, contract striping was completed on time and under budget by approximately $10,000, showcasing the county's commitment to efficient use of taxpayer funds.

The Public Works Committee also discussed ongoing projects involving in-house crews, who are set to tackle an additional 120 miles of road maintenance, including requests from various townships. Notably, the committee is undertaking guide rail work on County Roads 19 and 94, with a contract valued at $850,000.

One significant project highlighted was the embankment work on County Road 94, which had been in disrepair for years. The project involved extensive reconstruction to ensure the road's stability, utilizing modern materials to enhance durability.

The meeting also noted the presence of historical infrastructure, such as stone culverts dating back over a century, which were discovered during roadwork. These findings underscore the county's rich history while also presenting challenges in maintaining and upgrading the roadways.

As the Public Works Committee continues its efforts, residents can expect further improvements to their roads and infrastructure, enhancing safety and accessibility throughout Sullivan County.