Concerns over delays in bridge projects took center stage at the Christian County Commission meeting, prompting a recommendation to terminate contracts with the current engineering consultant, OWN. The discussion highlighted significant setbacks in the design process for two critical bridges, which have faced ongoing permitting issues and missed deadlines.

The county's representative expressed frustration over the slow progress, noting that the bid date for the projects had shifted multiple times—from September to October, then November, and finally December—creating a tight deadline with the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding set to expire at the end of the year. Compounding the issue, the U.S. Forest Service, the lead agency for one of the projects, expressed doubts about OWN's ability to deliver the necessary design package.

In light of these challenges, the representative met with each commissioner to discuss the situation and recommended moving to a different consultant. While acknowledging the risks involved in switching firms, he emphasized the urgency of completing the bridge replacements before the existing structures deteriorate further.

Commissioner Jackson clarified that while the dissatisfaction was primarily with the two bridge projects, the overall service from OWN had been satisfactory for other ongoing projects. He noted that Commissioner Williams, who was absent from the meeting, had been supportive of exploring new options to ensure the timely completion of the bridges.

The commission's focus remains on finding a solution that prioritizes public safety and efficient use of funds, with a commitment to moving forward swiftly to secure a new consultant for the bridge projects.