The Marshall County Economic Development Authority met on September 10, 2021, to discuss current and future ODoT plans for the Madill bypass, Willis Bridge, Eisenhower Bridge and intersecting areas. Guest speaker and District Engineer Anthony Echelle reminded attendees that Marshall County is currently working within an eight-year plan and explained that it is a daily revolving plan. Echelle stated that budget limitations have been the major factor in the slowed progress and when budget allocations are not as projected, existing roads get attention and new roads unfortunately are not at the top of the list. Echelle also explained that lack of labor and funding are current factors in timing of all proposed projects.
The most questions from the guests pertained to the Willis Bridge project. Echelle explained the Eisenhower bridge had emergency repair issues and the contractor on the Willis bridge was able to address these issues resulting in a temporary delay of Willis bridge progress. If the Eisenhower Bridge issues were not addressed, it could lead to a complete shut-down.
The question of the completion date for the Willis Bridge led to a few additional comments and questions, however, Echelle said within two years. According to Echelle, the Madill bypass is still priority on the eight-year plan and will be completed according to order. There was much discussion and pertinent questions, all of which are inclusive in the eight-year plan.
After the discussion on the highway projects conclude, the board continued to new business. This included appointing Rob Kuester as new Director for the Marshall County Economic Delevopment Authority. He is also Director of Johnson County.
Kuester mentioned that the needs for Johnson County and Marshall County were different. To end the meeting, Echelle implored all attendees to contact their state representative and governor concerning traffic issues and improvement. Kind of like the squeaky wheel gets the grease.