Commission approves $25,000 survey and design for two culvert replacements

The Fallon County Commission approved a $25,000 survey and design contract to advance two culvert replacement projects, clearing the way for more detailed engineering and permitting work.

Staff member (engineer) (Speaker 9) presented preliminary hydraulics and cost estimates for culvert work at the shortcut road and the anticline over Cabin Creek, proposing $25,000 to fund survey, design and plan profiles. "So that's where we're at for both...we would actually go and survey and design those," Speaker 9 told commissioners.

Commission discussion focused on keeping disturbance minimal to avoid expensive permits, whether the work should be treated as maintenance or require full 404 permitting, and how design timing would affect project windows. Chair (Speaker 2) and roads staff raised permitting and dewatering concerns; staff warned full permitting could push construction into the spring.

Commission member (Speaker 1) moved to approve Rose to perform the survey and design for $25,000. After a second, the motion passed on a voice vote with the chair recording the motion carried.

Why it matters: the work will determine whether the county can replace or repair existing culverts as maintenance (minimizing permit burdens) or must pursue more extensive federal/state permitting that could delay construction and add cost. Staff said the survey and design work is necessary to know the final scope and permitting requirements.

Next steps: Rose will be authorized to start survey and engineering work; staff will return with design findings and any permitting recommendations.