In a recent government meeting, officials provided critical updates on recovery efforts following a recent hurricane that severely impacted the area. The discussions highlighted two main areas of focus: debris removal and bridge inspections.
Debris removal is set to commence next Tuesday, with multiple trucks deployed to expedite the process, particularly in Fog Lehi, one of the hardest-hit regions. The removal will closely follow existing trash routes to ensure efficiency.
Additionally, officials reported on the status of 11 bridge structures owned by the municipality, three of which are covered bridges. Following routine inspections mandated by the Federal Highway Administration, a re-evaluation was conducted after the hurricane. The inspection revealed severe damage to the Depot Street Bridge, leading to its closure. Plans are underway to collaborate with JMP for a detailed assessment and to issue a request for qualifications (RFQ) for necessary repairs.
Concerns were raised regarding the extent of the damage, particularly to the middle pier of the bridge, which has been compromised due to river velocity. Officials indicated that repairs would not be quick, emphasizing the need for a thorough and formal design process to avoid future financial burdens.
In a positive development, water service has been fully restored to affected areas, with contractors successfully repairing the pump house that sustained damage during the storm.
The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities in managing disaster recovery while ensuring public safety and infrastructure integrity.