Highway superintendent reports sign project completion, bridge damage and multiple road closures

Henry County’s highway department reported April 13 that a multi-phase county sign replacement project in the western townships is complete and local officials signed a project-acceptance form under the referenced IC 6 39 procedure.

The highway superintendent told commissioners that final inspection was completed and staff recommended acceptance; the board approved the recommendation by voice vote, 3-0. The county will sign the state-required acceptance form and staff will deliver it by email.

Officials also reported several active and upcoming road impacts: 500 South is closed west of Wilburott Road for structural replacement and is expected to be closed for about a week to 10 days; 700 North at Honey Creek has reopened after structure replacement; and Prairie Road, Wilburitt Road and other crossings will be addressed as a railroad company performs repairs across the county. Highway staff said the railroad—not the county—has responsibility for repairing railroad crossings where the railroad operates.

The department warned of significant structural damage to the bridge on 400 South: inspectors found large cracks spanning two end spans and extending up the side of the structure; engineers described the damage as an unusual and serious condition that could be dangerous. The superintendent said the bridge will remain closed until staff can determine an appropriate posted weight limit and install required signage and restrictions.

Chip-seal work is scheduled to begin in about two weeks, with the department on project 12 of its paving program; staff said manpower and available funds will determine how many additional roads can be completed this season. A county official suggested pursuing federal aid for the damaged bridge in November.

County staff did not provide dollar estimates for repairs or a firm reopening date for the 400 South bridge during the meeting.