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Residents urge Union County to fix patchwork roads, cite motorcycle and windshield hazards
Summary
Multiple residents told commissioners that repeated tar-and-gravel patching is creating gravel hazards, broken windshields and motorcycle safety risks; county staff explained interim surface treatments and urged residents to report problem locations.
During an extended public-comment period, several residents told the commission that tar-and-gravel surface treatments and long-standing patchwork on local roads are generating safety and property-damage problems. One resident said, "I'm tired of having to repair my windshields," and another added that riding on gravel is dangerous for motorcyclists.
County staff and a staff representative explained the use of tar-and-gravel (surface treatment) as an interim repair for roads suffering "alligator" cracking following extreme winter conditions. Staff noted the county maintains roughly 600 miles of county roads and has limited asphalt resurfacing resources; they asked residents to call the front office (439-6000) to report locations and said crews would assess and add high-priority sections to the paving list. A staff member advised that surface-treatment areas typically need several days to cure before sweeping and that full resurfacing is scheduled per budget and grant availability.
"We have right at 600 mile of County Road," the staff member said, explaining scheduling constraints and resource limits. Residents urged follow-up brushing and cleanup after patching to remove loose gravel; county staff acknowledged the concern and offered to inspect problem sites.
