When construction of a new single span bridge or culvert or extension of an existing culvert that will limit the future deepening of a public watercourse is contemplated in connection with the construction of a state highway or other public improvement, the director of transportation or other public agency proposing the construction shall file plans for the construction with the clerk of the board of county commissioners of the county in which the construction or improvement is to be constructed, who shall immediately refer the plans to the county engineer for examination and review.

The county engineer shall review the proposed location, both horizontal and vertical, of the proposed structures and the effect of the proposed improvements on any other improvements and on any highways in the area. The county engineer shall file, within sixty days, with the clerk of the board of county commissioners and the director of transportation or other public agency a report of the review with such recommendations for change, amendment, or alteration in the plans for the proposed improvement as the engineer may determine to be necessary in the public interest.

When the plans for the proposed improvements as presented, or as amended pursuant to the county engineer's recommendations, are approved by the county engineer, the engineer shall file, within sixty days, a certificate of approval with the clerk of the board of county commissioners. If the engineer does not file such a report of his review with the clerk within sixty days after the date that the plans were referred to him, the engineer's approval shall be presumed by the clerk. The improvement shall then be constructed in accordance with the approved plans at the expense of the department of transportation or other public agency.

Effective Date: 04-09-1981 .