A proposal to add a $5 bridge maintenance fee for registered vehicles in Lawrence County was swiftly rejected by county council members. While the fee was expected to generate around $350,000 annually to help repair or replace aging bridges, officials say it wouldn’t be nearly enough.
The county currently has more than 20 bridges out of service, with repair costs for each bridge estimated at nearly $1 million. Council members argued that the proposed fee would take 3 to 5 years to raise enough funds to even begin repairs — far too long given the county’s urgent infrastructure needs.
Lawrence County residents already pay a $25 bridge maintenance fee. County leaders say they are still exploring alternative ways to fund critical repairs and ensure public safety.
