Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Storm Response Roads topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
After storm, commissioners prioritize ditching, tree cutting and culvert work before paving; 13 roads remain closed
Summary
Following a storm that downed trees and power lines, Owen County officials reported 13 roads closed and multiple outages. Commissioners directed that road surface work (paving) be deferred until ditches are cleared, trees removed and culverts replaced to prevent premature stone loss and wasted spending.
County highway and emergency staff reported storm damage that left about 13 roads closed because of downed power lines and trees, with scattered debris and damaged utility poles. County staff said Duke Energy had staged crews in the area and that utility removal of live lines was a prerequisite to reopening several roads.
Highway staff described the worst locations, including a severely affected Clark Road and other sections such as Slick Road, Texas Pike, Rocky Hill Road, sections near the old dump, Country Club Road blocks and Short Line Road. Commissioners emphasized safety and said crews must avoid taking unnecessary risks while clearing lines and trees.
Commissioners discussed repair strategy and finances and agreed to prioritize ditching, tree removal and culvert replacement before resurfacing or widening roads. One commissioner said the county will not proceed with paving until drainage and right-of-way work is complete, noting that stone and paving applied before ditches and culverts are fixed would wash off and be wasteful. Highway staff said crews were working and six crews were deployed; county staff will provide updates and a plan for contracted tree work if needed.
Why this matters: The decision shifts limited highway funds toward pre‑paving drainage and tree work to preserve long‑term road quality and avoid repeated expense after storms.
What’s next: County highway staff to continue clearing debris, coordinate with Duke Energy on power removals, and return to the board with estimates and a plan for ditching, culvert replacement and any required contracted tree work on July 17.
