Authority declares emergency after sinkhole, seeks emergency proposals for Old Ridge Road culvert

The Hobart City Redevelopment Authority declared an emergency and authorized solicitation of emergency engineering and construction proposals for a failing culvert on the 300 block of Old Ridge Road.

Staff reported that an aging corrugated metal culvert—described as beginning as a 48-inch pipe that transitions to smaller sections—has significant corrosion and scour that produced a hole and a localized sinkhole adjacent to the sidewalk. Staff said the visible damage included exposed, separable metal and large sections of compromised wall, raising public-safety concerns and uncertain hydraulic capacity.

Board members discussed site visits and initial stabilizing measures. The authority asked staff to obtain engineering proposals quickly, with the consultant Wessler already having conducted a preliminary on-site review and staff seeking a plan and cost estimate before the next meeting. The board passed a motion declaring the situation an emergency and separately approved soliciting proposals for both engineering and construction services.

Board members noted the complication that some drainage connections tie directly into the observed pipe and that any repair approach (e.g., lining or partial replacement vs. full replacement and bank armoring) will need to address inflow and outfall configurations. Staff said they will return with proposals and cost estimates for an engineering plan and recommended repairs.

The motion authorizes staff to solicit emergency proposals so the authority can act promptly to protect public safety and preserve roadway and drainage function. Next steps include returning to the board with engineering scopes and budget estimates for a vote.