Peach Tree Times

Sumter County residents should prepare for a road closure as part of ongoing infrastructure improvements in the area. A section of County Road 313, commonly known as Salters Mill Road, will undergo closure next week to facilitate the replacement of a bridge over Pessell Creek. The existing bridge, constructed in 1966, has exceeded its life expectancy and is marked by weight limits due to its deteriorating condition.

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is addressing these issues under its Low Impact Bridge Program, which aims to minimize the number of deficient and closed bridges not situated on state routes. Southern Concrete Construction Co. Inc. has secured the construction contract, valued at approximately $1.8 million.

Detours have been planned to manage the diversion of non-local traffic. Motorists can navigate around the closure using State Route 45 from Thomas Mill Road to State Route 308 south of Plains, or take State Route 308 from SR 45 south to Salters Mill Road.

The closure is slated to commence on Monday, April 14, lasting up to 180 calendar days as permitted for the project. Local authorities and the contractor emphasize the importance of public cooperation during this period to ensure efficient progress and completion of the bridge replacement.

The new infrastructure is expected to enhance safety and connectivity for the community. "The road is currently scheduled to close Monday, April 14. The contractor is permitted to close the road for up to 180 calendar days," they noted regarding the timeline.