County Struggles To Pay For Bridge, Culvert Repairs

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Motorists driving over the deteriorating culvert on Hermon's Main Street they probably don't give much thought to its condition or how much of a safety risk it may pose.

But, the small span over Elm Creek has fallen so bad into disrepair that it is being indefinitely closed to traffic July 1, requiring motorists to take alternate routes over two other small bridges not designed for heavy traffic.

"We were hoping to just be able to have some patchwork done and something so that it wouldn't have to be closed down," said village Mayor Cathy Race.

A recent inspection found the stone culvert is breaking apart to the point where it is a safety concern.

The deteriorating culvert is one of a number of aging culverts and failing bridges needing repair or replacement in the county.

The problem is - where will the money come from?

Hermon officials say it could cost up to $1 million to replace the culvert, money which the village doesn't have in its coffers as it looks for grants to pay for the work.

"They're not designed for the extra traffic or the heavy weight," said Race.

Donald Chambers is the St. Lawrence County Highway Superintendent.

He says it's a growing problem being faced not only here but across the nation.

"Everything is based off condition rating and the deterioration that shows up on the DOT inspections," said Chambers.

Chambers has given county officials a Top 10 list of bridges needing immediate attention but the decision may become a budget matter for legislators.

In addition to the need to replace failing culverts, like the one that collapsed during spring flooding on county Route 15 outside Rensselaer Falls, nearly half of the county's bridges are rated "structurally deficient".

While the bridges remain safe, they still need repairs or upgrades or weight limits may be imposed.

The county also plans to close the 54 year old steel deck Eel Weir bridge on County Route 4 and the Elliott Road bridge in the town of Potsdam beginning June 30 for replacement.