Clay County declares disaster after flooding, posts winter weight limits to protect roads

Facing widespread spring and early-summer flooding, Clay County commissioners voted to request a gubernatorial disaster declaration after approving Resolution #2018-12 citing damage to roads, culverts, bridges and public infrastructure from storms beginning June 17, 2018. The board recorded the motion and asked the governor’s office for a formal declaration to enable state and federal assistance.

Earlier in the year the commission adopted Resolution #2018-06 to set seasonal axle weight limits — generally 6 tons per axle on hard-surface county roads (with specified exceptions) and 7 tons per axle on gravel roads — and requested the South Dakota Highway Patrol’s assistance with enforcement under SDCL 32-14-6. Highway Superintendent Rod Polley warned that lifting or changing limits will depend on weather and road conditions.