The Board lists concerns regarding the closure of Highway 8 from Falls City to the Village of Salem during the time of construction.
The Department of Transportation designated the detour route to use Highway 75 and Highway 73 to reach Falls City. However, the most direct route to Falls City from Salem will be 645 Boulevard south of Salem to 704 Road, also known as “Pone Creek Road.”
The Board raised concerns about the anticipated added expense in maintenance of this road during the time detours are required, siting limited funds for road rock and maintenance, a lack of road rock in the area with travel to obtain rock requiring more than 55 miles of travel one way to obtain rock.
Safety of citizens who will travel the road during the closure is another concern. Traffic on the gravel road will include passenger vehicles and grain trucks creating hazardous dust. The road also includes several high inclines that can be dangerous with meeting other vehicles on the hilltops with the dusty conditions.
Richardson County is asking the state to consider assisting Richardson County with the maintenance of the local road and noted in the letter it would be helpful if the Nebraska State Patrol could assist with monitoring traffic on the road as well.
Commissioners also asked that strong consideration be given to leaving the current bridge at Salem in place during construction of a new bridge next to it. While it would require the acquisition of right-of-way and adjusting the construction plans, the Board feels it would be the best and most practical way to get the new bridge constructed and ease the burden to those who live in Salem and the surrounding area, and for the many agricultural producers transporting crops during the construction period to the Consolidated Grain & Barge facility in Falls City.
The letter closes by noting that lack of proper maintenance could threaten serious loss of life, health or property for Richardson County citizens.
