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# Kimberly-Clark Access Road Costs Surge Amid Infrastructure Challenges
- URL: https://www.industrialbriefs.com/kimberly-clark-access-road-costs/
- Published: 2026-10-28T15:01:15.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-28T15:30:46.000Z
- Description: The cost of the access road for Kimberly-Clark's Trumbull County plant is rising due to engineering challenges, affecting project timelines and budgets.
- Author: IndustrialBriefs
- Tags: manufacturing, construction, #enriched

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The anticipated costs for an access road supporting Kimberly-Clark Corp.'s new Trumbull County plant are escalating due to unforeseen engineering challenges. This development is critical as it impacts the $800 million investment in the region, underscoring the intricate balance between infrastructure needs and environmental considerations.

**What Happened**  
The project, designed to connect Kimberly-Clark's under-construction facility to state Route 45, spans 2.6 miles and is divided into three phases. The initial phase, involving the widening of Lane West Road, is scheduled to commence early next year and conclude within that year. The subsequent phase will upgrade Burnett Road East, beginning later in the year and extending into 2028\. The final phase, which includes building a bridge over the Mahoning River, is set to start in early 2028, continuing through 2029.

During a recent meeting of the Warren-Howland-Warren Joint Economic Development District, Trumbull County Engineer David DeChristofaro highlighted significant [engineering challenges](https://www.industrialbriefs.com/incodema3d-eos-3d-printer-acquisition/). Initial studies revealed that the existing pavements on Lane West and Burnett East are inadequate for the expected increase in traffic, necessitating full reconstruction. Additionally, floodplain studies indicated that the originally proposed 275-foot bridge would raise the base flood elevation by 0.4 feet, an unacceptable level. Even a longer 400-foot bridge failed to meet requirements, necessitating a costly 1,500-foot bridge estimated to surpass $25 million.

To avoid the prohibitive bridge cost, an alternative involves removing approximately 700,000 tons of slag material from the river's side, potentially reducing costs if the Western Reserve Port Authority can handle the material relocation. However, this remains an expensive option with costs ranging from $4 to over $20 per ton, depending on hauling requirements. The design choice of curbs and closed drainage, while more expensive upfront, promises lower maintenance costs and improved road durability.

**What This Means for Your Business**  
For companies involved in construction and infrastructure development, this situation highlights the importance of flexible planning and budgeting for unforeseen engineering challenges. The project exemplifies the necessity of integrating [environmental considerations](https://www.industrialbriefs.com/cordenpharma-acquisition-ambiopharm/) into infrastructure projects, impacting compliance and permitting processes. The financial implications are significant, with potential loan requirements and grant dependencies. The Ohio Department of Development's All Ohio Future Fund has already contributed $17.2 million, but further financial strategies, including possible loan forgiveness and additional federal or state grants, will be crucial to project completion.

**What US Operators Should Watch**  
Key dates include the project phases beginning in early 2024 and extending through 2029\. Companies should monitor any shifts in state or federal funding opportunities that could affect the project's financial landscape. Additionally, the evolving engineering assessments and environmental compliance requirements will be critical in navigating potential regulatory hurdles. Decision-makers should prepare for potential procurement adjustments and deadlines associated with the project's progression.

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*Source: https://businessjournaldaily.com/kimberly-clark-access-road-cost-expected-to-rise/.* [*Read the original story ->*](https://businessjournaldaily.com/kimberly-clark-access-road-cost-expected-to-rise/?ref=industrialbriefs.com)