LAWRENCE CO. – The Lawrence County Highway Department is expressing frustration and concern over recent vandalism involving incidents involving vital flood safety equipment. Officials are urging the community to cease the theft of high water signs and intentionally placing barriers in waterways, emphasizing the serious safety hazards and unnecessary costs these actions create.
According to a statement released by Highway Department Superintendent Brian Sowder, multiple high water warning signs have been stolen from areas affected by the recent historic flooding in Lawrence County. Additionally, barriers intended to block off flooded roadways have been thrown into the water.
One specific incident highlighted by the Sowder occurred on I Street on Saturday morning between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., where a barrier was intentionally thrown into the water, and a flip-down high water sign was removed from its post.
The Highway Department stresses that these actions create significant dangers for residents who may not see the missing warning signs or the submerged barriers. This can lead to individuals inadvertently driving into hazardous floodwaters or encountering unexpected obstructions in the water.
Furthermore, vandalism is creating undue financial burdens for the county. The cost of replacing stolen signs and removing misplaced barriers detracts from funds that could otherwise be used to address other critical infrastructure deficiencies in the future.
The department is assessing the extensive damage caused to roadways and bridges throughout Lawrence County by the recent flooding. Crews are working diligently to repair these vital transportation routes. The additional costs of replacing stolen and misused safety equipment hinder these recovery efforts.
The Lawrence County Highway Department is appealing to the community to understand the seriousness of these actions and to refrain from stealing high water signs or tampering with safety barriers. Residents are reminded that these measures are in place to protect public safety during hazardous flooding events. Cooperation from the community is essential in ensuring the safety of all Lawrence County residents and the efficient allocation of public funds for necessary repairs and improvements.
