Committee outlines multi-year plan for bridge replacements; Eagle Road targeted for ARIP application

Speaker 1 raised concerns about the Eagle Road bridge and asked whether a culvert is possible. Speaker 2 said a culvert is “very unlikely” because DNR permits and span/abutment excavation would push the structure over 20 feet, making it a bridge replacement candidate. Speaker 2 said they met with an engineer to get a rough estimate needed for an ARIP funding application and expects the estimate in time for the application deadline.

Speaker 2 also reported that four county structures are reduced or closed due to condition: one closed in McCann’s area, two posted at five tons in Newton, and one posted at 20 tons at Crystal Lake. Speaker 2 said closed structures will be assigned priority 1 for ARIP replacement consideration and that the local bridge application submitted to DOT this cycle should be competitive because of timber deterioration.

On timing, Speaker 2 described inspection cadence and a projected schedule: design work potentially in 2027 with replacement possible in 2030, and warned that permitting (DNR, Army Corps) and wetland crossings could extend timelines by years. Speaker 2 said they had sent DNR an email seeking a site review and that DNR had not yet replied in the meeting record.

No formal commitment of funding beyond application submission was recorded; staff framed the discussion as planning and prioritization for ARIP and DOT bridge programs. The committee did not take a formal vote on bridge-specific actions during this meeting.