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Jackson County votes to join regional application for federal bridge grant
Summary
Jackson County commissioners voted June 22 to participate in a joint application for the federal Bridge Investment Program to replace a deteriorating County Road 12 bridge. The estimated project cost is $5.5 million with a 25% local match (about $1.4 million); Lauderdale County will serve as administrative lead.
Jackson County commissioners voted June 22 to participate in a regional application for the federal Bridge Investment Program to replace the aging County Road 12 bridge, staff told the board.
Public Works staff described the structure as a 1975-built, 248-foot bridge over the Paint Rock River that provides the only motor-vehicle access into the Williams Cove community and to large tracts of public recreation land. Inspections show a deteriorating deck and substructure, with ratings that could force further load restrictions in the next two years.
“The state has decided to invest in Jackson County once again,” Public Works staff said. “We’re extremely thankful for that,” the presenter added, describing an AECOM estimate that escalates the replacement cost to about $5.5 million in a 2030 construction scenario.
Under the proposal, Lauderdale County would act as the lead administrative agency for a bundled application covering multiple counties. The grant would be reimbursable and cover 75% of costs; the county would be responsible for a 25% local match—roughly $1.4 million—and for any cost overruns. Staff said construction invoices would be paid by the county and submitted to the lead agency for reimbursement.
Commissioners asked whether the county would be bound to proceed if later unable to fund its share. Staff advised that the resolution expresses intent to participate and does not by itself commit county funds, and that the county could withdraw later if necessary.
After discussion, the commission set aside procedural rules and adopted a resolution authorizing Jackson County to participate in the joint application. Clerk Margaret will sign the resolution so Lauderdale County can include Jackson County in the June 29 submission.
Next steps: the county will be part of the bundled application submitted June 29; if the application is successful, the county would later proceed through design and contracting and would be responsible for the local match and any overruns.
