Supervisors approve temporary construction easement for 17th Street bridge; staff report further testing and possible repairs

Jackson County supervisors voted to approve a temporary construction easement on Dec. 16 that will allow contractor staging and work on the 17th Street bridge replacement. Public works staff said the easement, signed by John and Donna Heckman Trust, enables contractor access and recommended the board chair sign the agreement.

Supervisor Nin Fluego moved to approve the easement and Supervisor Mike Steinus seconded; the board voted in favor. Public works staff also briefed supervisors on recent repair work at Moorhead Bridge, reporting a newly discovered crack that was repaired and that Terracon will perform nondestructive (mag-particle) testing to verify repairs. Staff said Origin Design will complete a follow-up inspection before any reopening. The county noted that if testing reveals more extensive deterioration, options include keeping the bridge closed or pursuing longer-term replacement; staff reminded the board that County Bridge Construction Fund awards typically result in replacement projects several years after award, so timing can be lengthy.

Staff said Channelworth work has a projected start no later than February, with a preconstruction meeting scheduled, and thanked local landowners for granting temporary easements that facilitate construction.