Paving project begins around Premier 1

A paving project around Premier 1 Supplies southwest of Washington began Monday morning.

The project involve upgrading the loop of roads that connect Premier 1 to Highway 1.

Washington County Engineer Jacob Thorius said that the project involves three sections of paving:

“In all, we’re paving about three miles of road,” Thorius said.

The roads will be upgraded to eight-inch concrete and be 22 feet wide.

Thorius said that the road upgrades are necessary because of increased traffic going to and from Premier 1.

“You have a business that’s grown and the impact that causes on the roads,” he said. “This will improve access to Premier 1 with increased truck traffic.”

Jones Contracting of West Point was awarded the $1.6 million project.

Thorius said that the project is a partnership with the county and Premier 1.

“They understood that we have limited funding for the impact on the roads,” he said. “They stepped up to the plate to help address the maintenance issues. They will help cover some of the cost.

“They’re being good stewards and good neighbors.”

The roads will be closed to through traffic for the duration of the project, which is expected to take about a month and half.

“With the type of surface that we’re working with, rain will play a factor,” Thorius said. “It’s definitely weather permitting.”