COLUMBUS, Ind. — A Bartholomew County Highway administrator says he’s hopeful his department will be able to move to the new highway garage east of Petersville by the end of the year.
But highway engineer Danny Hollander has seen too many delays caused by supply chain disruptions, labor shortages and inflation that he’s hesitant about making firm promises.
In April, contractors estimated the new $7.6 million to $8 million garage was about 80% to 85% completed. At that time, Bartholomew County commissioner Carl Lienhoop estimated the 22,000–square-foot main building, as well as various outbuildings, would be ready for occupancy in July.
But required construction materials “probably took twice as long getting here as they typically do,” Hollander said.
Supply chain problems, labor shortages and inflationary pressures have continued for a longer period of time than county officials expected.
“It’s really a timely topic right now,” said Taylor Bros. Construction president David Doup, whose company supervised nine prime contractors and six subcontractors working on the new garage, located east of the Clay Township Fire Department. “Problems are happening everywhere – not just in my business.”
For the complete story, see Wednesday’s Republic.
