BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
The construction of the Five Points Roundabout caused major traffic problems in Decatur this year. And a project scheduled next year will likely do the same.
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) is planning to do a deck overlay on the Wendell Macklin Bridge on E. Monroe St. next year.
The project, with no date known at this time, was the subject of discussion at a recent meeting of Decatur’s board of works and safety.
A bridge deck overlay is a protective layer of material applied to the surface of a bridge deck to repair existing damage, protect the underlying structure from deterioration, and extend the bridge’s lifespan.
The overlays can be made from various materials, such as epoxy, asphalt, or concrete, and are applied to both new and old bridges when the main structure is still sound.
To facilitate the project, INDOT wants to purchase four very small pieces of land – approximately .3 of an acre in total – around and under the bridge, which is owned by the state since it is the path of US 224 through the city.
Two of the parcels are owned by the city, two are owned by the city through the park & rec board.
After receiving appraisals, INDOT will pay the city and park board a total of $9,740 for the four.
Asked if the city could simply provide an easement for INDOT to use the properties, Mayor Dan Rickord after a succinct reply: “No. That was not an option.”
Board member Craig Coshow, however, recommended a stipulation added to the sale that would allow the city to use the land involved in the future.
City officials are hoping to some day in the future to extend the Rivergreenway Trail, taking it north under the Macklin bridge.
The board gave its approval to the sale – with the stipulation – and the park board followed suit at its next meeting.
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