(The Center Square) – Some in Ohio call it spring, but to others, “orange barrel” season is underway.
The Ohio Department of Transportation announced the beginning of its construction season that this year includes nearly 1,000 projects costing taxpayers $3.2 billion.
“We know that drivers see ODOT’s orange barrels and cones as an inconvenience, but they are also a signal of progress and improvement,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “This year’s transportation projects will continue to ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace, improving the quality of life for those who live, work, and visit Ohio.”
The 955 projects are expected to improve 5,538 miles of pavement, enough to pave a two-lane road from New York City to San Diego. There are also 844 bridges on the list.
Southwest Ohio is expecting significant construction with I-75 projects planned for the Dayton area and the 1-75 Mill Creek Expressway project near Cincinnati. New pavement, lighting and more lanes are planned for both areas.
The overall investment in southwest Ohio is $375 million.
Throughout the state, 171 projects are directly related to safety improvements.
“This year we will see a very significant investment in our transportation infrastructure – one that will improve safety, reduce traffic fatalities, and keep people and goods moving efficiently,” Transportation Director Pamela Boratyn said. “Every project we break ground on is a step toward a stronger, safer, and more connected future for Ohio.”
According to the Ohio State Patrol, there were 4,000 work zone crashes in the state last year, with 35% coming with workers present in the area.
Troopers wrote 8,396 tickets for speeding in work zones with 29% for speeds more than 20 miles per hour above the posted speed limit.
