As of Friday at 12 p.m., the town of South Valley has officially re-opened Burch Drive to allow for local traffic with the completion of a temporary structure, Town Supervisor Heather Lamberson said. All residents have been notified as well the 911 system, local fire, EMS and law enforcement agencies for both Cattaraugus County and Chautauqua County. Burch Drive, as well as Janet Drive and Robert Lane, have been closed since June 20 , due to the cross culvert on Burch Drive near the intersection of Sawmill Run Road being washed away, making the road impassible. Lamberson said the town has been working with many county departments, to install a temporary bridge-type structure to allow for traffic until a more permanent bridge can be built.

Lamberson added, the town and members of the town highway department would first like to thank the residents for their patience, understanding, and cooperation during this very stressful time. “The community came together in such a way that it is truly moving and inspirational. An incredible amount of appreciation goes to the members of the Town Board who volunteered their time and personal equipment to assist residents affected by this disaster. Without their help, this situation would have been considerably worse,” Lamberson wrote in a press release.

She said, the town would also like to express gratitude to all the county departments and agencies for their immediate response and assistance during this emergency situation and their support as recovery measures continue. “Starting with The Office of Emergency Services, their swift response at the start of the disaster as well as their continued support and guidance during this recovery time has been imperative to coordinating all efforts. The Department of Public works; the Commissioner’s office, engineering, survey, bridge and road crews, and fabrication, have been a crucial part of all work that has been done, and without their assistance the temporary structure would not be in place,” the release continued.

Lamberson noted the town highway department will continue working diligently on efforts to build a permanent structure as well as creative ways to secure funding for the project. The State of Emergency and Emergency Orders have been rescinded. “The town would like to apologize for anyone not mentioned above as all have been instrumental in this team effort,” the release noted.