JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
Cory Pickett of Marion County’s Highway Department recently provided several updates regarding the department’s recent activity and planned projects for the coming winter season.
Pickett explained since July 1, the highway department has successfully paved 14 different roads throughout the county, one of which is under state aid. The department also managed to pave seven city roads from across the county. The department is set to pave two other state aid roads in 2026. All paved roadways were funded directly from the $500,000 appropriation approved by the county back in June.
For the upcoming winter season, Pickett shared that the department is equipped with three plows ready to be used if the need arises. The department is also set to receive a new truck with plows equipped and three soft boxes, allowing the department to be better prepared for potential snow in the coming months. Pickett clarified, however, that should snow make landfall, any mountain roads chipped or tarred cannot be maintained with snow on them. He explained by doing so could leave the roads further damaged to the point of attracting mud and dirt from the ground.
“It’ll just eat it up. There would be nothing left but mud and dirt if we do that,” said Pickett.
Several bridges and road tiles were also announced to be built and installed in the months ahead, prompting a project-filled winter for the highway department.