By 1808Delaware
Delaware County has received a record-breaking $21 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, announced on January 8. This substantial funding will go toward the reconstruction of East Orange Road, creating a new underpass beneath the heavily used railroad tracks in the area. With a total project cost estimated at $43 million, the East Orange Road Underpass project represents one of the most ambitious infrastructure endeavors in the county’s history.
Addressing a Longstanding Traffic Bottleneck
The project will tackle one of Delaware County’s busiest road-rail intersections, located between Green Meadows Drive and Blue Holly Drive on Orange Road. Approximately 10,000 vehicles and 30 trains pass through this crossing daily, leading to frequent delays. These traffic stoppages not only cause frustration for drivers but also impede emergency services and law enforcement response times.
Delaware County Engineer Chris Bauserman highlighted the importance of collaboration in making this project a reality. “This is a great example of a multi-jurisdictional cooperative effort, with many partners working together to complete a significant regional project,” he said.
Transforming East Orange Road
The reconstruction will lower East Orange Road by about 22 feet beneath the railroad tracks, creating a safer and more efficient passage. In addition to the underpass, the project will include the installation of a deep storm sewer and a shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists.
To minimize disruption during construction, a temporary road will be built to redirect traffic along the south side of the existing road. However, the bike trail in the area will remain closed for the duration of the project.
Funding and Partnerships
The historic grant, managed by the Delaware County Engineer’s Office and the county’s Transportation Improvement District (TID), reflects a collaborative effort among multiple organizations. The Ohio Rail Development Commission played a pivotal role by submitting the grant application.
Additional funding will come from Delaware County’s general fund, local Tax-Increment Financing district fees, and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission. Special acknowledgments were made by Bauserman to Governor Mike DeWine, Ohio Rail Development Commission Executive Director Matt Dietrich, and former and current Ohio Department of Transportation directors Jack Marchbanks and Pamela Boratyn. State and federal legislators were also credited for their support.
Timeline and Next Steps
Design engineering for the project is complete, and right-of-way acquisitions are expected to wrap up in 2025. Construction is slated to begin in 2026, with an anticipated completion date in 2029.
The underpass will not only reduce traffic delays but also enhance the efficiency of transportation and emergency services in the region.
For more details, visit the project’s official webpage: East Orange Road Railroad Grade Separation.
