During the Rio Blanco County Board of County Commissioners meeting on September 23, 2025, local resident Jimmy Dearman raised urgent concerns regarding the structural integrity of the bridge on County Road 202. Dearman, a retired corrosion engineer, highlighted significant corrosion issues that could pose safety risks to the community.

Dearman explained that the bridge lacks proper corrosion control measures, which he believes could lead to severe structural failures over time. He emphasized the importance of implementing sacrificial anodes—devices that prevent corrosion by redirecting electrolysis away from the metal structure. He noted that previous repairs to the bridge, including the welding of new galvanized decking, may have inadvertently created an electronic bond that could exacerbate corrosion issues.

In addition to the bridge concerns, Dearman addressed the need for better road maintenance on County Road 2. He pointed out that the road's center line is barely visible, which could lead to dangerous driving conditions, especially at night when bright headlights can blind drivers. He urged the county to repaint the road markings and add a white stripe along the side for safety.

Dearman's testimony underscored the potential hazards that aging infrastructure can pose to residents. He expressed his hope that the county would take immediate action to address these issues before they lead to accidents or further deterioration. The commissioners acknowledged his concerns and indicated they would look into the matters raised, emphasizing the importance of community safety and infrastructure maintenance.