The County Drainage Board voted to approve a federal‑aid application for reconstruction of Pierce Road from 331 to east of Miami, including a proposed outlet into the Hoffman lateral of the Bunch Ditch near Juniper and a 30‑inch outlet pipe for the phase described in the staff report.
Skye Meaders, identified in the record as representing the planning/growth office, told the board the project has been delayed by inflation and other factors and was split into phases. The application before the board covers Phase 1: roadside ditches, collection of existing old tile into a single outlet pipe at Juniper and a 30‑inch outlet into the Hoffman lateral roughly 600 feet east of Juniper. Phase 2 will address the remaining corridor east of that point.
Meaders said the county expects to advertise Phase 1 for bid in late February next year and begin construction shortly afterward. He also said most right of way is secured but about four parcels still require work. The presentation listed geometric design elements — 12‑foot travel lanes and 4‑ to 6‑foot shoulders — and cited safety concerns caused by truck traffic near the interchange.
Board members asked where runoff currently drains and about existing tile systems; Meaders said the plan consolidates several old tiles into one pipe to simplify and modernize the drainage system. A motion to approve the application passed during the meeting.
Why it matters: the reconstruction is a multi‑phase, federally funded project that will change road geometry, drainage outlets and right‑of‑way, with implications for nearby landowners and truck traffic safety.
Next steps: staff will proceed with the federal‑aid application and prepare the Phase 1 bid package; remaining right‑of‑way and final design details will be resolved before advertising.