Franklin County weighs repair options after major roadway slide, FEMA aid expected

Franklin County officials and geotechnical consultants reviewed stabilization options and estimated costs after a significant slope failure that has undermined a county roadway, discussing temporary access, contractor-led excavation, and the prospect of federal reimbursement.

Consultants said two borings reached bedrock — one at about 77 feet and a second at about 101 feet — and described two principal repair options: a large shot-rock buttress with extensive excavation, or a lighter-weight, proprietary cellular concrete system anchored with tiebacks. "We drilled, 2 borings. So the first went down 77 feet, hit rock, then the second was a 101 feet hit rock," said Speaker 2, the geotechnical consultant on the call. The team discussed drainage, installing drains through shot rock, and the need to tie lightweight concrete down because the material is "lighter than water," Speaker 2 said.

The consultan…