Route 639 (Walnut Shade Road) in Essex County has reopened following a culvert replacement project that began in January after a pipe failure. The road, which had been closed since December, was affected by both the culvert failure and damage to the travel surface. Though the culvert work is complete, motorists should expect a rough ride due to loose gravel, with paving set for spring. The closure had forced a 9-mile detour, which has now been removed.