By Rusty Nixon Correspondent
PLYMOUTH — Snags on Pine Road continue to slow the project.
Difficulties in obtaining property for the right of way have pushed bid letting for the project into November. Three properties must still be purchased for the project to continue or at least have a right of entry provision negotiated.

The county began condemnation proceedings to obtain the property hoping to receive a waiver from Indiana Department of Transportation to go to bid letting at an earlier date but could not obtain that waiver.
Two of the properties, the Thompson property and the LifePlex, appear to be ready to allow a right of entry for the project. The owner’s objections are not to the road project but to the amount of money they will receive for their property and the damages they will incur. In such cases where right of entry is allowed, the project can continue while the county and the owners continue to negotiate the price.
The third property — the former Hayloft restaurant — appears to be more complicated. County Attorney Jim Clevenger told the Marshall County Commis-sioners that he had a counter offer ready for the owners but had yet to discuss it with the attorney for the owners. He says that they and the county are far apart on the value of the land.
The County will also have to go through the process of finding a company to conduct the construction inspection aspect of building the road. Once the bid letting is complete, DLZ — the current engineering firm on the project — will have completed their contract with the county on the construction. After that it will be up to another or possibly DLZ if they are chosen – to oversee construction to be sure it is built to specifications.
Neal Haeck, county Highway Superintendent, asked the Commissioners for permission to begin the paperwork necessary for the process of choosing that company to begin.
According to INDOT specifications, qualified companies submit proposals for the work. The county then grades them based on specific criteria with that list being sent to INDOT for final approval of the firm.