Workers struck a water main in the early stages of the $686,000 project and then heavy rainfall soon after made working conditions impossible for contractors.
Campaspe Shire general manager works Daniel Basham said the completion of the project had been delayed because of ongoing wet-weather conditions.
“The road base needs to dry out before continuing with the next step — laying the road surface,” Mr Basham said.
“Additionally, an old water main and shallow utility services, not shown on plans for the area, have been unexpectedly encountered and have slowed progress.
“Subject to ongoing favourable weather conditions, the road should be open on July 18.”
The works program is now scheduled to finish on July 15 after signs displaying the anticipated finish date were changed overnight on Thursday.
The June 30 date being displayed at the end of business in Thursday suddenly became July 15 on Friday.
Campaspe Shire’s website initially had the Saunders to Mitchell St project, which includes renewal of gutters, drainage, road surfacing and minor footpath works, due to finish in mid to late May.
Access to the Kyabram District Health Service has been maintained throughout construction, with one entrance always operational and wayfinding signage put in place.
KDHS acting chief executive officer Wendy Ross said the hospital had been made aware of the delay, caused — for the most part — by wet conditions.
“KDHS recognises that the delays in the roadworks at the front of the health service is inconvenient for our community,” Ms Ross said.
“These works have made it very difficult for the clients to access the health service.
“We hope that any further delays can be avoided where possible.
“We appreciate that the community has been exceptionally patient when accessing the service.”
Residents have been able to access properties during the works, but there have been interruptions to gas and water during the construction.