ODOT Construction Season Begins with Focus on Work Zone Safety

ZANESVILLE, OH – The Ohio Department of Transportation is kicking off a record-breaking construction season, investing $2.8 billion into improving roads and bridges across the state.

This extensive initiative includes 950 projects, including 39 major projects each valued at over $10 million. In the East Central Ohio region, construction is set to begin on 78 construction projects for an investment of $299 million. This effort includes both new and ongoing work, aimed at reducing serious crashes in east central Ohio. In Muskingum County alone, there are 14 projects underway, including the ongoing I-70 reconstruction project.

“What motorists can expect in the near future is at the end of April, estimated for April 29th, 7th Street under I-70 is going to close for bridge reconstruction. This is similar to what folks saw in phase one of construction when we had to close 7th street as well. At some point, you will see closures of 5th Street and 6th Street to surface roads as well.” ODOT District 5 Regional Public Information Officer, Morgan Eibel said.

This week is Work Zone Awareness Week, and the department is highlighting the importance of safety in construction zones. With 43 ODOT crews already struck this year, the focus is on reducing distracted driving and speeding to protect both workers and motorists.

“It’s of the upmost importance to keep our crews safe. It’s very important to remember that these aren’t just workers, these are our neighbors, our family, mothers and fathers that we’re trying to keep safe. We don’t want to take away from them those experiences that they deserve with their families.” ODOT District 5 Public Information Officer, Chas Cosgrave said.

Additionally, motorists in Muskingum County can look forward to a new project this year on State Route 284, which involves resurfacing the road. This project is expected to start sometime this summer.