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Fayette County discusses right-of-way acquisitions and potential condemnation for federally funded bridge project
Summary
County leaders discussed offers, appraisals and the timeline for acquiring a small parcel (about 0.17–0.20 acres) needed for a federally funded bridge replacement, and agreed to seek more legal and negotiation information before deciding whether to pursue condemnation.
Fayette County commissioners spent an extended portion of their meeting discussing acquisition options for several small parcels needed for a federally funded bridge replacement project. Staff and project representatives said the parcels total only a few tenths of an acre (speakers cited roughly 0.17–0.20 acres) but stressed that timely acquisition is critical because the multimillion-dollar bridge project must remain on schedule.
Bill Mackie raised the matter, asking whether the county should increase its current offer or move toward condemnation for a small strip of land on 'Bridal 32.' Board members and staff reviewed appraisal rules and cautioned against offering more than the average of at least two appraisals. A representative who identified himself as Terry Knox with SJCA said Volkert (a right-of-way/acquisition subconsultant referenced in the discussion) had handled appraisals and offers and that the project letting is scheduled for October of the next year. Participants noted that right-of-way needs to be in hand roughly six months before letting (April–May) to avoid schedule impacts.
Discussion covered negotiation strategy and the costs and timeline implications of eminent-domain litigation. Staff recommended contacting Volkert and the county attorney to align negotiation strategy and obtain a clearer estimate of legal fees and time to acquire parcels. Speakers also discussed property-specific issues (for example, fence replacement and 'cost to cure' estimates) and noted that some improvements might need to be handled locally after construction because federal funding will not cover them. The board agreed to delay final decisions, directed staff to contact the acquisition consultant and legal counsel, and suggested scheduling an executive session to discuss negotiation strategy and potential litigation.
No condemnation motion was made at the meeting; the board deferred action pending additional information and possible executive-session consultation with legal counsel.
