Scheduled Closure Details
- Closure Timing: On Saturday, December 14, at 9:00 PM, U.S. Route 36 and Ohio State Route 37 will close to through traffic between Lake Street and State Route 521.
- Duration: The closure will last until 9:00 AM on Sunday, December 15, totaling 12 hours.
- Reason: This temporary shutdown is necessary to facilitate the demolition of the old railroad bridge at The Point, a critical infrastructure improvement in Delaware, Ohio.
Local Traffic Provisions
- Both U.S. 36 (William Street) and Ohio 37 (Central Avenue) will remain accessible to local traffic.
- Residents and businesses will have access to their properties and intersecting streets.
- The section of 36/37 between SR 521 and Bowtown Road will also be open to local traffic only.
About the Point Improvement Project
The demolition of the old railroad bridge is part of the Point Improvement Project, which aims to:
- Alleviate traffic congestion.
- Enhance safety along U.S. 36 and Ohio 37.
- Expand the number of vehicular lanes under the Norfolk Southern Railroad bridge.
Currently, approximately 25,000 vehicles traverse this area daily, with projections estimating nearly 40,000 vehicles per day by 2040. The project is expected to be completed by fall 2025, with an estimated total cost of $44.36 million.
Funding Sources:
- Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC): $20.47 million
- State of Ohio TRAC Program: $12.7 million
- State of Ohio Safety Program: $3.15 million
- U.S. Community Projects Grant: $2 million
- State of Ohio Urban Resurfacing Program: $430,000
- City of Delaware: $5.61 million
Traffic Management During Construction
To minimize disruption:
- Two-way traffic will generally be maintained on U.S. 36/Ohio 37 without the need for flaggers or detours, except during specific operations like the bridge demolition.
- Regular updates will be provided by the City of Delaware on traffic impacts.
Staying Informed
- Visit the official project page: Point Improvement Project
- For inquiries or updates, email: pointproject@delawareohio.net
Alternative Routes and Commuter Advice
- Through traffic should use alternative routes to bypass the affected area.
- Plan ahead and allow extra travel time to accommodate detours and delays.
- Stay updated via local news outlets and official city communications.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
Although the temporary closure may inconvenience some, the long-term benefits are substantial:
- Improved traffic flow and safety at this critical juncture.
- Enhanced infrastructure to support regional growth.
- A smoother commute for thousands of drivers.
This collaborative investment reflects the community’s commitment to a brighter, safer future.
