LAKE ARTHUR - Mayor Sherry Crochet has been working to make repairs around the town, most importantly, a gate near the sewer plant that is used to drain a canal at the end of Third Street near the boat launch.“When the gate was initially installed, metal bolts rather than stainless steel, were used to fasten the gate,” Crochet said. “Over the years, the bolts deteriorated, causing a hazardous situation.”She said when a worker pulled the handle to open it, the bolts gave way, sending the gate flying. The heavy gate could have easily injured someone, if not worse.“I don’t know why stainless steel bolts weren’t used to begin with since the gate stays underwater,” she said. “The very heavy gate was specially made. When it came loose, it sunk to the bottom of the water. An underwater diver had to be brought in to locate the gate and because of the weight, a tugboat carrying a crane was needed to lift it back up.”A second barge was brought in with a backhoe. Water was pumped out and pilings were put in place. A temporary dam was used for workers to complete the job.
