After much confusion most would say the final result makes sense. On the morning of Oct. 10, City Engineer David Miller said, “I have met with the contractor this morning and went over a revised phasing of the work on Roark Valley Road and we have come up with a way to modify the schedule and work process that will allow us to leave Roark Valley Road open to traffic until December 1.”
The confusion started as a result of an announcement Miller made at the Branson Board of Alderman’s study session on Oct. 9. One could actually see the surprise on the faces of the Mayor and board when Miller announced that although Forsythe Road was expected to be open very soon that a detour would be placed at the intersection of Roark Road and Forsythe Road, perhaps as early as next week.
Miller explained that the detour was necessary for the city to make the improvements to the Roark Valley/Forsythe Road intersection. As some of the board and the Mayor actually expressed their surprise at the detour they asked how long it would be, why it was happening during one of the busiest times of the year and how long it would take to finish. Miller indicated that the weather necessary to insure the completion of the project was a consideration as to timing, and that the plan, weather permitting, was to have it done by Thanksgiving weekend.
Later that day, information was received from Miller and Jerry Adams, Public Information Director for the city, stating that the detour would become effective on Monday Oct. 20. Miller reiterated that weather permitting it was planned that the work on the intersection would be completed no later than the Thanksgiving weekend and hopefully sooner.
On Oct. 10 Miller indicated that it was extensive feedback on the closure of Roark Road during the period of time the city had chosen to close it that led to the decision to delay the closing. Miller did point out that although they will basically keep Roark Valley Road open “There may be a few hours on some days when the road will be reduced to one lane and we’ll use flagmen.” Miller said that such temporary lane reductions could not be avoided and would be for short durations on one or two days.
Furnished Courtesy of the Branson Daily Independent.
