LAWRENCE CO. – Lawrence County Highway Superintendent Brian Sowder announced today that the Highway Department will commence its annual chip and seal road preservation program, a process expected to last several weeks, weather permitting.
This essential maintenance work is crucial for extending the lifespan of the county’s road network.
Sowder emphasized that while roads will not be fully closed to traffic during the operations, motorists should anticipate some delays.
“There will be signs posted and flaggers on each end of the work present to direct traffic,” Sowder stated, assuring residents that measures are in place to manage traffic flow safely. Work typically takes place from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m., although some days may extend beyond these hours.
The chip and seal process is scheduled to begin tomorrow, Wednesday, June 4, on Grandma Brown Road and will continue as weather conditions allow.
Addressing potential concerns from the public, Superintendent Sowder explained the importance of chip and seal despite it sometimes being an unpopular method.
“I understand some people do not like chip and seal. However, it’s a necessary process that helps resurface and protect the road to extend the life of the road,” he said.
He also highlighted the significant cost-effectiveness of this method, noting that chipping and sealing costs approximately $10,000 per mile in material, “which is significantly lower in cost compared to paving.”
The following roads are currently scheduled for chip and seal treatment in the coming weeks:
- Grandma Brown Road
- Sandy Acres
- Sherwood Lane
- Copperhead Valley Road
- Deer Run Road
- Earl Road
- Quail Run Road
- Gunsmith Road
- Fort Ritner Road
- Back Creek Road
- Alisa Lane
- Hogman Road
- Diamond Road
- Butterfly Lane
- Guthrie Road
- Crest Motel Road
- Anderson Road
- Arthur Road
“We appreciate the community’s patience while we preserve and maintain the roads of Lawrence County,” Sowder concluded. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on specific road schedules, which the Highway Department will endeavor to provide as work progresses.
