The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is kicking off a record construction season, investing $2.8 billion into 950 road and bridge improvement projects across the state. There are 39 projects classified as “major projects” with a value above $10 million.
“Investing in efficient infrastructure is an investment in quality of life,” said Governor Mike DeWine in a statement. “Once complete, these projects will significantly reduce traffic congestion and improve roadway safety.”
This year’s construction program also includes 176 safety projects and laying nearly 5,700 miles of pavement in the northeast, northwest west, central, southeast, and southwest parts of the state. Projects will repair or replace 885 bridges in the state.
“While the orange barrels that are synonymous with summer may be a source of frustration and inconvenience for some, they are a sign of progress and improvement for all who live in Ohio and who travel through it,” said Jack Marchbanks, ODOT director.
While these projects get underway, ODOT has issued a reminder for drivers to mind work zones.
So far this year, 43 ODOT crews have been struck while working. This compares to 56 ODOT crews hit all of last year. 14 ODOT workers and nine contractors were injured in work zone crashes in 2023. Sadly, one contractor was killed.
Last year, there were 4,098 work zone-related crashes in Ohio with 36% occurring when workers were present. There were 1,433 injuries from work zone-related crashes, 110 of them classified as serious injuries. Nine people were killed, including one contractor. August was the top month for work zone crashes with 523. By far, the top work zone crash type continues to be rear-end crashes.
Speeding continues to be a major factor in work zone crashes. In 2023, the Ohio State Highway Patrol wrote 3,760 citations with 34% for speeds more than 20 miles per hour over the posted speed limit.
“Driving requires all your attention, but that is especially true in work zones where things can change quickly,” said Marchbanks. “Drop the distractions, obey the speed limit, and allow extra room between your vehicle and the one in front of you.”
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Source: Ohio Department of Transportation
