Hess Road bridge on Miller Creek posted 10‑ton limit after inspectors find timber decay; replacement planned

The Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors approved a temporary 10‑ton vehicle limit for structure number 74260 — the Hess Road crossing over a tributary to Miller Creek — after an inspection found significant structural decay.

Katherine Nicholas, county engineer, told the board the inspection showed “significant decay in the timber piles as well as the back wall” that holds up the abutments, and recommended posting the bridge to protect public safety. The resolution ordering signs to be erected and the weight limit to be posted passed by roll call.

Nicholas said the affected portion of Hess Road has no crossroads for about three miles, so closing or restricting the bridge will create a lengthy detour for local residents. Staff have sent letters to property owners near the bridge to notify them about the posting. County staff said they expect the posting to be temporary while the bridge is repaired or replaced and estimated, based on the five‑year plan, that replacement work could occur around 2028, although priority and timing remain subject to engineering design and available funds.

County staff also explained the bridge is short (about 20 feet) and likely to be replaced by the county bridge crew when design and survey work are complete. The engineer said small repairs or interim postings might be used on other structures to delay closures while the department finalizes priorities.

The board approved the embargo and directed that advisory signage be installed to inform drivers of the new 10‑ton limit.

The order is administrative: it restricts vehicle weights on the structure but does not authorize permanent closure. The county said it will continue inspections and refine scheduling for design and replacement work. Residents will be notified of detour routes and updates as projects are scheduled.