Bowling Green Residents Face Ongoing Sinkhole Repairs on Single Tree Way
In the city of Bowling Green, unexpected repairs are underway for a sinkhole that developed along Single Tree Way. The local Public Works department, along with Bowling Green Municipal Utilities (BGMU) and Scott & Ritter, Inc., are working together to tackle this issue that has drawn increasing attention from nearby homeowners.
Background of the Sinkhole
The sinkhole first came to light in 2020, when geologist Nick Lawhon noticed its formation around an aging drainage system installed in the early 1970s. Although engineers had initially believed they had repaired the issue, recent observations showed the area starting to sag. Lawhon remarked, “The homeowner at this location was noticing fallout around the edges of the concrete structure. As water gets into the ground, it takes soil with it, leaving a void space right at the edge.”
Temporary Fixes and Ongoing Issues
For the past few years, temporary repairs have been added to the drainage system, but with many sinkholes in the area requiring attention, this particular hole became lower on the priority list. The city has an ongoing contract with Scott & Ritter to address these sinkholes, concentrating on those that pose immediate risks to public safety.
Simplified Repair Process Disrupted
Normally, repairing a sinkhole can be a fairly straightforward task. Lawhon explained the usual steps involved: “The intent is to dig down to the rock, remove all of the gravel and loose material that’s been put in over the years, and clear out any unstable saturated clay at the bottom.” Once the area has been properly cleared, larger rocks are added first before finishing with smaller rocks towards the surface.
New Complications Arise
However, the repair process has not been without its challenges. On Wednesday morning, crews discovered complications related to utilities in the area. A sewer line runs directly through the spot where they need to dig, so they are currently in discussion with BGMU engineers to devise a stabilization plan for the sewer line before moving forward.
Timeline for Repairs
Despite these unforeseen complications, Lawhon is hopeful that the repairs can be completed in about a week and a half. He cautiously stated, “I have high hopes to be out of here earlier than that, but sinkholes will make a liar out of you. As soon as you start putting timelines on them, they generally throw you another curve ball.”
Impact on the Community
As work continues, the section of Single Tree Way where the sinkhole is located will remain closed for the duration of the repairs. Residents are advised to seek alternate routes and stay informed about the ongoing situation.
This collaborative effort aims to restore safety and stability to the area and reassure the community that the local authorities are taking the necessary steps to address this issue efficiently.
As repairs progress, residents of Bowling Green are left to navigate the challenges of living near a sinkhole, while remaining hopeful for a long-term solution.
