BEDFORD – A request to pave Poplar Lane brought a resident’s concerns before the Lawrence County Commissioners Tuesday morning, highlighting a common issue of road maintenance and ownership. A resident, Greg Baugh, addressed the commissioners, advocating for the road to be paved next year due to its deteriorating condition.
Baugh described Poplar Lane as being plagued by “numerous potholes and patches all over it,” posing a challenge for residents and daily traffic. He emphasized that the recent construction of four new homes in the addition further underscores the need for improvements, arguing that paving the road would significantly upgrade the value of these properties. Additionally, Baugh noted the presence of “many walkers in the area,” suggesting that a smooth, well-maintained surface would enhance safety and accessibility for pedestrians.
However, the request met with a crucial clarification from Lawrence County Highway Superintendent Brian Sowder. Sowder informed the commissioners that, to his knowledge, Poplar Lane is currently classified as a private road. This designation means that its maintenance and improvements typically fall outside the direct responsibility and funding of the county highway department.
Despite this, Sowder committed to conducting further research to determine if the county had formally adopted Poplar Lane as a county road. He assured Baugh and the commissioners that he would investigate the road’s historical status and report back on his findings.
