Starke County’s bridges are in good shape overall, according to a recently completed inspection. Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler says no new bridges were deemed structurally deficient. Repairs are continuing on the bridges identified three years ago.
Ritzler says that report noted problems with 17 bridges. That number will be down to 10 by the end of this year. Work is ahead of schedule on the bridge on 450 South just west of Range Road over Smith Ditch. The road will be closed between Range Road and 100 West for part of the summer. Ritzler told the county commissioners design work is ongoing on the bridges on 700 North just west of 500 East and on 100 east just south of 500 South.
Ritzler also advised the county is having problems with people ignoring road closed signs and driving around them as crews are paving. He will talk to county attorney Marty Lucas about options for fines and restitution should roads be damaged. Road improvements are under way throughout the county. Crack sealing is planned on Toto and Range Roads, and more pug asphalt will be applied to roads on this summer’s schedule in about two weeks after the latest batch of asphalt finishes curing.
