South Hutchinson to close Blanchard for culvert repairs beginning March 3

Information obtained from City of South Hutchinson

South Hutchinson to close Blanchard for culvert repairs beginning March 3
Graphic courtesy of City of South Hutchinson Facebook

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Blanchard will be closed from Valley Pride to Friendship beginning March 3 for culvert repairs, the City of South Hutchinson announced Feb. 23.

No through traffic will be permitted during the closure. Residents are asked to plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time.

Culverts are underground structures, typically made of concrete, steel or plastic, that allow water to flow beneath roads and other surfaces. Over time, culverts can deteriorate, crack or collapse due to age, heavy traffic loads and water erosion, creating road safety hazards if left unaddressed. Repairs often require closing the roadway above the culvert to allow crews safe access to complete the work.

The city did not announce an expected duration for the closure.

"We appreciate your patience as we complete these improvements to keep our community moving safely," the city said in a statement.