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Washington Evening Journal
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Washington, IA 52353
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Franklin Avenue roadwork to begin April 15
Henry County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss gives secondary roads update to Henry County Board of Supervisors
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
MT. PLEASANT — Drivers in Henry County can expect lane closures and delays next week as contractors begin work on Franklin Avenue.
“Contractors will begin finish work on the stretch of Franklin Avenue between Salem and 285th Street,” Henry County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss said. “The work is expected to continue throughout the week, weather permitting.”
The project will require a lane closure with flaggers present to direct traffic. The Henry County Engineering & Road Department is advising drivers to use caution in the area and anticipate delays. For more information, residents can contact the department at 319-385-0762 or via email at engineer@henrycountyiowa.us.
In addition to the Franklin Avenue project, Hotchkiss provided updates on other road and infrastructure work happening in the county at the Thursday, April 10 Board of Supervisors meeting.
“Crushing operation to date, we're right around 30,000 tons that they've crushed,” Hotchkiss said. “So they're moving, they're progressing well.”
Hotchkiss also reminded residents that the deadline for dust control sign-up is April 15 to avoid a late fee.
Another update involves stop signs near Salem Elementary School. Hotchkiss explained changes being made with the help of grant money.
“Originally I had proposed LED flashing lights,” he said. “One of the discussion items that came out of the DOT, and that group is saying we would rather see you do a flashing red beacon light versus the flashing LED.”
The new setup will still be solar-powered. Additionally, there will be two feedback signs alerting drivers to their speed in Salem.
“There will be one as you come into Salem and then there will be one as you are approaching the school from the west,” Hotchkiss explained.
After completing some work on sidewalks and a crosswalk, Hotchkiss hopes to complete the sign project over the summer.
Hotchkiss also noted that next week, he will attend a national engineering conference in Illinois and may not be available locally.
“This year, one of the Washington County engineers, Jacob Thorius, will be taking over as president of the organization,” Hotchkiss said.
Hotchkiss added that the conference offers continuing education and networking opportunities for county engineers.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
