The Marshall County Commissioners received good news on the Jefferson Street Bridge project.
Jason Peters, Supervisor of the County Highway Department spoke with representative of Beer and Slabaugh, the contractor hired to make emergency repairs to the aprons of the bridge after a severe erosion issue was discovered in September.
Although the exact cause of the erosion was not determined, Peters said the city’s storm drain was not the culprit.
Peters said work on the west apron should be completed by Friday of this week and then Beer & Slabaugh will move to the east bridge apron.
Commissioner Roose asked about the retaining walls on the west side.
Peters said the foundation and retaining wall has been completed and they added a drain in the bottom so any water that seeps through the gravel will drain out through the bottom.
Peters discussed the east and said, “They have the sidewalk off. In previous years they must have cut a hole in the cement and filled the void with cement.” He said that fix actually put cement on the gas line under the bridge. Crews are working cautiously to remove the cement from the gas line.
The erosion issue on the east side may not be as severe as they thought. Once the rest of the sidewalk is removed they will see how much more repair work needs to be completed. Peters explained, “There is a rather large crack on the north east corner of the roadway apron that’s about a half-inch. They may remove that and repair it with the completion of this project.
Commissioner Deb Griewank said on the What’s Your Opinion Show Tuesday morning that it appears the project is moving along faster than anticipated and may come in under budget.
Originally Beer and Slabaugh estimated a 3 to 4 week closure which started on September 9th.
