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ODOT launches one of the 'largest construction season to date'

Tana Weingartner
/
WVXU

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is officially making it every driver's favorite time of year by kicking off construction season Wednesday.

The state is working on nearly a thousand projects totaling an estimated $2.3 billion.

Camp Washington Business Association Executive Director Joe Gorman says his community is excited about plans to upgrade the Hopple Street - I-75 interchange.

"We are hoping that the improvements to the I-75 corridor will promote and increase the commercial and industrial development down here in Camp (Washington)," says Gorman. "We've had a lot of changes over the last several years."

Other major local projects include continued work on the Jeremiah Morrow Bridge and the I-275 / State Route 32 interchange.

Director Jerry Ray says ODOT has had to find ways to save money internally since fuel tax revenues are down as more people are buying fuel efficient cars and less gas.

Some of the most expensive projects statewide include construction on the Cleveland Innerbelt Bridge and the "North Side Fix" on I-270 in Franklin County.

Senior Editor and reporter at WVXU with more than 20 years experience in public radio; formerly news and public affairs producer with WMUB. Would really like to meet your dog.