Sumter County Saves $340K Building Culverts In-House

Sumter County Public Works completed a major culvert replacement on County Road 311 in-house, saving taxpayers $340,000 compared to outside contractor costs.

The Operations Division finished the project for $140,000. An outside contractor would have charged $487,000. The work included replacing three corroded 60-inch corrugated metal pipe culverts, installing concrete end sections, placing riprap rock for stabilization, replacing guardrail and fencing, and paving new asphalt. The project finished during National Public Works Week in May.

Operations Superintendent Eslie Oxendine credited Supervisor William "Billy" Stratton for his expertise in pipe and concrete installation and Senior Equipment Operator William "Will" Johnson for operating heavy equipment throughout the project.

"Their leadership and expertise helped ensure this work was completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard," Oxendine said.

Assistant Public Works Director Michael Bryant said the project aligns with this year's National Public Works Week theme, "Rooted in Service, Powered by Community," which recognizes public works professionals who maintain roads, drainage systems, and infrastructure.