BEDFORD – The Lawrence County Highway Department is moving forward with its paving schedule for the week while also preparing for significant bridge overhaul projects. During the commissioners’ meeting on Tuesday morning, Highway Department Superintendent Brian Sowder informed the board that the cost to pave just one mile of roadway amounts to $127,714.34.
“That figure includes materials, equipment, labor, and fuel,” added Sowder.
In addition to the paving updates, Sowder announced that the department would be advertising for the overhaul of two county bridges. These projects will address bridges located on Boone Hollow Road and Stars Boulevard. The bid specifications for these bridge overhauls are expected to be available next week.
Superintendent Sowder also reiterated the paving schedule for the current week, which began today, May 6th, 2025:
- Today, May 6th: Davey Cox Road, from County Road 60 to Dorsett.
- Thursday, May 8th: Tunnelton Road, from the Guthrie Creek Bridge to the top of the hill (approximately 1 mile).
- Friday, May 9th: Logan-Donica Road, from Red Bridge to Donica.
- Monday, May 12th: Gas Line Road, from Washboard Road to Siebolt Road.
Paving operations are slated to begin around 7:00 a.m. each day and finish by 3:00 p.m. However, the Highway Department cautioned that equipment may arrive at work sites earlier than 7:00 a.m., and unexpected issues could lead to delays beyond the 3:00 p.m. target.
The department is requesting the public’s understanding during these roadwork periods. They emphasized that paving will not be halted to allow traffic to pass through. Paving will proceed according to the schedule as long as weather conditions remain favorable.
The Highway Department explained that closing roads and completing one continuous pass with the paver is the most efficient way to finish the paving work and reopen the affected roads as quickly as possible. Motorists are strongly advised to find alternative routes during the scheduled paving times.
