Road maintenance a cornerstone

I’m Kenny Payne, proud Commissioner of District 3 in Muskogee County, where our mission is not just to maintain our infrastructure but to enhance and fortify it for generations to come. This last year was a testament to our dedication, with significant advancements in road and bridge improvements throughout our district, which includes Council Hill, Boynton, Wainwright, Haskell, Taft and parts of Muskogee.

Our district’s efforts in road maintenance have been a cornerstone of our work. In 2020, we bought a new asphalt lay-down machine and overlaid 20 miles of road over the next 2 years. Last summer, we embarked on a significant project in Boynton, marking the completion of approximately 20 miles of chip-sealed roads in District 3. Chip sealing is a crucial process for us, involving

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the application of a sticky oil substance followed by aggregate chips, which are then rolled to create a durable surface.

This method is not only cost-effective but also significantly extends the lifespan of our roads.

Innovation has been at the forefront of our approach. We have upgraded the materials we use, including the introduction of polymer-modified oil, which enhances the flexibility and durability of our roads. This upgrade increased the expected life of the oil up to 3 years. This represents a long-term investment in the quality and longevity of our infrastructure.

The use of cleaner chips ensures a better seal, further extending the road’s lifespan and ensuring the safety and satisfaction of our residents.

Beyond road maintenance, our focus on bridge construction and improvement has been paramount. Our latest bridge projects, made possible through the County Improvement for Roads and Bridges (CIRB) program, the first of its kind, stands as a testament to our commitment to safety and innovation.

The new bridge design, featuring an open cylinder to prevent clogging from debris, is a proactive measure against flooding—a frequent challenge given our proximity to the Arkansas River. This design is not only a first of its kind in Oklahoma but also a crucial step towards reducing flood risk and ensuring uninterrupted access for our residents.

Our team, including dedicated staff, operators, and truck drivers, is the backbone of our operations. They exemplify the collaborative effort required to maintain and improve our district’s infrastructure.

As we look to the future, our commitment remains steadfast: to provide Muskogee County with resilient, sustainable infrastructure that meets the needs of our community today and prepares us for the challenges of tomorrow. The investments we make now are a testament to our belief in the enduring strength and prosperity of District 3.

Together, we are building a foundation for future generations, ensuring that Muskogee County remains a vibrant, accessible, and safe place to live and work.

Reach Kenny Payne at kpayne@readymuskogee. org.