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Commission weighs state-funded removal of inundated bridge near Churchs Ferry, seeks options before deadline
Summary
A state program would pay about $164,000 to remove an inundated bridge south of Churchs Ferry; commissioners noted the DOT rated the structure’s deck and superstructure as excellent but debated whether removal and reallocation of funding is prudent given access implications and possible future road repair costs.
Jason told commissioners he received notice the state would like to remove an inundated bridge south of Churchs Ferry and has allocated approximately $164,000 for removal. He said DOT inspection reports rate the bridge structure as in good condition underwater, but the bridge sits amid inundated roads and restoring through-traffic would require extensive road rebuilding. “It’s 164,000 for to remove that one bridge,” Jason said.
Commissioners discussed risks and trade-offs: one commissioner said removing the bridge now could save recurring inspection and liability costs, while others warned that removing the bridge would likely foreclose future state funding to rebuild access and could leave residents with longer alternate routes. The commission asked staff to confirm the state’s construction-season deadline (discussed as the 2026 construction season), gather cost estimates and return options at the next meeting.
Why it matters: Accepting state removal funding would remove a county-maintained structure and reduce future inspection and maintenance obligations, but it could also shift long-term access and maintenance costs to the county if the road is later restored.
Next steps: Highway staff will confirm the exact grant terms and deadline, obtain replacement/roadwork cost estimates and present options for keeping the bridge closed with signage, transferring township road responsibilities, or accepting removal and reallocation of funding.
