Clay County approves advertising for Comstock urban reconstruction project after officials call it urgent

The Clay County Board of Commissioners on May 27 approved advertising for an urban reconstruction project in the city of Comstock, directing county staff to put the project out for bid with a proposed letting date in July.

The board said the Comstock roadway has deteriorated to a point that patching is no longer adequate and that the route — heavily used by loaded gravel and grain trucks tied to the diversion project — poses an increasing safety risk. Highway staff and city representatives told commissioners residents and the city had grown frustrated by prior delays.

Justin (Highway Department staff) told the board the county has studied the corridor for years and that typical short-term repairs such as mill-and-overlay would be a temporary fix that would not address drainage issues in town. He said the project has been coordinated with the diversion authority and noted that private landowners in Comstock signed easements without compensation based on an expected timeline for the work.

Commissioner Mongeau and other board members emphasized the project’s public-safety and economic importance and warned that further delay could force long detours and increase costs. Commissioner Ebinger moved to approve advertising the project under the state aid project number cited in staff materials; Commissioner Mongeau seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Board members asked staff to proceed with the advertised schedule so construction can occur this season and to coordinate with the city so homeowners and businesses are given timely notice of closures and detours.

The board did not adopt final construction contracts at the meeting; staff will return with bids and a recommendation after the advertised letting.