Public works seeks project numbers, sets TIP hearing and discusses temporary Bailey bridge purchase

County public-works staff presented multiple infrastructure items to the commission, including project-number requests, RFQs for on-call environmental studies, a Sept. 15 public hearing request for the 2027–2032 six-year transportation program and an updated annual bridge report.

Staff reported the bridge inventory includes 104 inspected structures, 60 of which exceed 20 feet and require FHWA reporting; the majority of structures are in good condition but two timber bridges were rated poor (Chapman Cove and another timber structure). Staff also noted 8 posted bridges with load restrictions and 28 structures with unknown foundation information that are treated as scour critical until inspected further.

On project funding, staff said local road funding of about $400,000 will support Finch Creek and Upper Finch Creek work and much of the work will use county crews. They also requested permission to go out for RFQs for on-call environmental studies and to call for bids for chip-rock for 2027.

A discussion focused on emergency response capability and a proposed purchase of a Bailey-style temporary bridge. Staff said buying an 80-foot Bailey-style bridge would cost about $200,000 and allow the county to deploy a temporary bridge without contracting an external crew. "That's about 200,000," staff said when asked the estimated cost; commissioners discussed secondary-market options and potential federal surplus sources.

The board supported setting the Sept. 15 hearing for public input on the transportation program and asked staff to return with specifics on procurement and funding for any Bailey-style bridge purchase.