During this week’s Supervisors meeting Jake Hotchkiss provided a detailed report on road department activities, including resurfacing projects and contract hauling. Crews have been working intermittently, with hauling operations wrapping up soon in Winfield and shifting north of New London. Old Highway 34 continues to receive attention with culvert work and ditch shaping, while crews prepare for a preconstruction meeting next week in Jefferson County.
Jake talks Dust control sign-ups & Salem Stop signs.
Franklin Avenue recently received rumble strips, and ADA sidewalk improvements are being completed in Salem. Jake also noted that he will be attending the National Association of County Engineers conference next week in Schaumburg, Illinois, where the Washington County Engineer will be installed as president if N.A.C.E
Conservation Department Update
Conservation Director Caleb Waters shared a robust update on park and campground preparations, expressing gratitude to volunteers assisting with cleanup after recent windstorms. Campgrounds are on track to open next Tuesday, pending the arrival of holding tanks for the dump station. Until then, some work remains on electric pedestals and water hookups.
Playground fundraising efforts continue to thrive, now approaching $50,000 in donations. ITC Midwest plans to contribute $2,500, a significant boost for the project. Meanwhile, a new story walk trail in partnership with the public library will soon offer a nature-themed reading experience along a new trail system.
The conservation team is also preparing for several upcoming events:
- Easter Egg Hunt – April 14 (last year’s drew over 280 attendees)
- Fungi Foray – This weekend, focusing on morel and other wild mushrooms
- River Road cleanup – Third week in April, in partnership with Wisdom Quest
- AmeriCorps team arrival – This spring, bringing 10–12 volunteers for two months to help with trail work and improvements across the park system
Although the dump station project has hit a slight delay due to a manufacturer’s family emergency, the team remains optimistic and currently within budget. Caleb also announced the Americorps volunteers will return this summer.
Waters confirmed volunteers are properly covered through liability releases and clarified the AmeriCorps crew will be housed in two cabins while the remaining units stay open to the public.
Final Notes
With road improvements moving forward, park projects taking shape, and regional collaborations growing stronger, the county is entering spring with momentum.