Engineer says Big White Circle Road bridge delay stems from refabricated guardrail mounts; expects finish by month-end

Madison County's engineer updated commissioners on the status of the Big White Circle Road bridge project, telling the board that a misalignment in guardrail post mounts required refabrication and slowed progress.

The engineer said the guardrail contractor found some post mounts "off by country," requiring refabrication of pieces and creating a delay of several weeks. He described the remaining work as grinding the bridge deck, finishing concrete and asphalt work and reinstalling guardrail; the contractor plans a two-week dedicated push to complete remaining tasks.

"So we're anticipating about the end of this month," the engineer said describing the target for completion once the guardrail and deck work are finished. Commissioners noted frustration with the protracted closure; the engineer said the project was pushed back by approximately six weeks due to prior delays in setting components earlier this year.

Board members also discussed salt supply for winter operations. The engineer said supplies are tighter this season after earlier large stockpiles elsewhere: "I wouldn't say there's a shortage, but supply is getting tight," he said, adding that commercial contractors have had limited access to some suppliers because state agencies re-stocked early.

The board did not change project scope or funding at the meeting. The engineer said staff will monitor progress and keep the public informed about the reopening timetable.