ODOT fair when choosing asphalt, concrete jobs

A recent investigation conducted by Ohio State Inspector General Tom Charles has concluded that the Ohio Department of Transportation has not favor asphalt contractors over concrete companies.

According to The Cleveland Plain Dealer, ODOT was accused of the following:

* ODOT Director Gordon Proctor improperly contacted members of the concrete industry to try to get them to quit the concrete association after the group challenged ODOT policies;

* ODOT showed favoritism toward asphalt in the pavement selection process; and

* Proctor took a Lake Erie boating trip with a contractor who was promoting the use of recycled concrete.

Charles' report found no wrongdoing, and ODOT said contracts for road and bridges have did not favor either method of road building. The agency, however, did admit that asphalt is used more frequently for repaving.