The USDA Forest Service recently completed the construction of two bridges in Jackson County near the Maumee Scout Reservation, of which Jackson County has assumed ownership.
One bridge is located on Squirrel Town Road, and the other on Polk Patch Road.
This is being done in an effort to improve transportation in Jackson County while also improving access to the upper reaches of two separate creeks for fish and other aquatic creatures that were blocked by the low water crossings that the bridges replaced.
This work also will improve the water quality of these tributaries, which are in the Salt Creek watershed.
The construction phase, which began in 2018, involved the removal of two low water crossings, including old bridge abutments, realignment of the road section and construction of the two bridges and their approaches.
Through an agreement with the Forest Service, Jackson County assumed ownership of the two bridges and approaches, acquired rights of way, provided required Indiana Department of Transportation inspections and will provide oversight and maintenance of the bridges and approaches.
“These two bridges will be better for traffic, and we will not have to go out and repair the road after a heavy rain such as before with the low water crossing,” Jackson County Highway Superintendent Jerry Ault said.