Richland County officials are sounding the alarm on road safety as inspections reveal multiple structures deemed unsafe for travel. During a recent Public Works Standing Committee meeting, it was reported that five roads have already been closed due to structural concerns, with more closures likely as inspections continue across the county and its townships.

The inspection phase has uncovered significant issues, prompting discussions on how to address the repairs. Officials are exploring cost-sharing options with local townships to manage the financial burden of necessary repairs. “We’re working with those townships to go through the cost share program, or can we fix this without having to do a whole complete cost share?” one official noted, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

As inspections progress, the county is bracing for a potential spike in repair costs. The committee acknowledged that many structures have not been thoroughly examined in years, leading to concerns about the extent of the damage that may be uncovered. “We couldn’t even begin to tell you how big a hit it’s gonna be until they’re inspected,” an official stated, emphasizing the need for comprehensive evaluations.

In addition to road safety, the committee discussed equipment replacement needs, including the urgent need to replace a damaged dump truck. Officials are actively seeking a used replacement to keep costs manageable, with a target price of under $50,000.

As the county navigates these pressing issues, residents can expect ongoing updates on road safety and infrastructure improvements in the coming weeks. The outcomes of these inspections and subsequent repairs will be crucial for ensuring safe travel throughout Richland County.