Diversion project hits utility‑relocation milestone; road closures and crossings enter final work phase

Project managers reported that contractors have mobilized across the 50‑mile project footprint and that the public‑private partners and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are in a final construction push toward substantial completion.

Terry Williams said earthwork is underway at multiple reaches and the diversion inlet structure turnover is likely the week of June 4. The U.S. Army Corps’ Colonel Chase told the board the Corps is focusing on preventing and rapidly mitigating predictable construction impacts — road access disruptions, drainage issues, dust and weeds — and that local Corps staff have conducted numerous community engagements.

Construction lead Chris highlighted recent milestones shown in a drone tour by Senior Construction Manager Tom Folks: the Maple River aqueduct has been rerouted through the engineered channel, finishing work is underway at the Red River control structure, and utility relocations are complete after the installation of new poles and raised conductors for a 115‑kV transmission crossing.

Staff said 108 utility conflicts were identified during planning and deployment; about 105 were completed by the developer and coordination involved roughly 17 utility companies. County Road 6 is anticipated to open shortly, while other crossings and County Road 81 and County Road 2 have temporary closures; a Highway 75 closure is being tracked for July.

Officials advised that notices are being distributed and that contractors will work to minimize traffic disruptions as final paving and bridge work conclude. Colonel Chase and staff reiterated that claims related to construction impacts will generally be routed to contractor insurance or crop insurance rather than decided administratively by the Corps.