Ohio DOT Kicks Off Record Construction Season

April 25, 2024
950 road and bridge improvement projects are scheduled across the state

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.”

-------------------------------------------------------------

Source: Ohio Department of Transportation

Sponsored Recommendations

The Science Behind Sustainable Concrete Sealing Solutions

Extend the lifespan and durability of any concrete. PoreShield is a USDA BioPreferred product and is approved for residential, commercial, and industrial use. It works great above...

Proven Concrete Protection That’s Safe & Sustainable

Real-life DOT field tests and university researchers have found that PoreShieldTM lasts for 10+ years and extends the life of concrete.

Revolutionizing Concrete Protection - A Sustainable Solution for Lasting Durability

The concrete at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center is subject to several potential sources of damage including livestock biowaste, food/beverage waste, and freeze/thaw...

The Future of Concrete Preservation

PoreShield is a cost-effective, nontoxic alternative to traditional concrete sealers. It works differently, absorbing deep into the concrete pores to block damage from salt ions...