County Commission Approves $12M Infrastructure Plan After Months of Debate

MILLBROOK — The Midwest County Commission voted 4–1 Tuesday to approve a sweeping $12 million infrastructure package that will fund repairs to aging roads, bridges, and water systems across the region — ending months of contentious debate over how to address the county's deteriorating public works.

The plan, which will be financed through a combination of federal infrastructure grants and a 15-year general obligation bond, is expected to break ground in April. County Engineer Patricia Voss said the first phase will prioritize the 14 miles of county roads rated in "poor" or "failing" condition, as well as the Millbrook Creek Bridge on Route 9, which has been under a weight restriction since 2023.

"This is long overdue," said Commission Chair Robert Alderman, who championed the package. "Our roads and bridges are the backbone of this county's economy. Farmers can't get their crops to market on roads that are falling apart, and families deserve safe infrastructure."

The lone dissenting vote came from Commissioner Dale Pruitt, who argued the bond financing would place an undue burden on property taxpayers. "I support fixing our roads — I just don't support the way we're paying for it," Pruitt said after the meeting.

The vote came after three months of public hearings that drew hundreds of residents, business owners, and farmers to the commission chambers. Several speakers cited the economic toll of road damage on agricultural operations, while others raised concerns about the bond's long-term cost.

Under the approved plan, property owners in the county will see an estimated increase of $47 per year on a $200,000 home, according to county finance director Gail Morrow. The first bond payment would not come due until fiscal year 2028.

Federal grants are expected to cover approximately $4.2 million of the total cost, pending final approval from the state transportation department. County officials said they are "highly confident" the grants will be awarded based on preliminary communications with state officials.

Construction will be managed by the county's public works department in partnership with a private contractor to be selected through a competitive bidding process this winter. Work is expected to be completed over three construction seasons, with the final phase wrapping up by fall 2028.

The Tribune will continue to cover the infrastructure project as it moves into the planning and construction phases. Residents with questions about the plan can contact the county engineer's office at (555) 800-4200.