Putnam County commissioners vote to permanently remove Roddy Road crossing after damage identified

Putnam County commissioners voted 4–1 to remove the Roddy Road crossing permanently after staff reported continuing deterioration and exposed infrastructure beneath the roadway.

Public Works staff told the board that the county closed Roddy Road earlier to protect the public after inspections found severe corrosion and large potholes that exposed the pipe under the bridge. Staff presented three options: full replacement of the crossing (estimated about $750,000), slip‑lining the culverts and reestablishing the roadway (estimated about $300,000), or removing the crossing and re‑establishing flow (elimination of the crossing). The board discussed maintenance burdens, potential flood or debris impacts and future cost escalation if the county delayed action.

Commissioner Harvey and others argued the county should permanently remove the crossing to avoid ongoing and rising costs. After debate, a motion to eliminate the crossing passed 4–1. Commissioners directed staff to handle closure work consistent with the option, including any required environmental coordination, by removing the crossing structure, re‑establishing the natural channel and installing end‑of‑road protections and turnarounds where needed.

Staff noted that removing the crossing carries some risk of debris accumulation in the channel in the short term but reduces long‑term county maintenance liability. The board asked staff to coordinate any environmental permits and to confirm the effect on stormwater and flood conveyance before final construction.

Ending: The county will proceed with final design and permit coordination for elimination of the Roddy Road crossing; staff will return with any required contracts, permit updates and a schedule for work.