The Point Improvement Project Moves Forward With Major Traffic Shift

By 1808Delaware

The City of Delaware’s Point Improvement Project is entering a new phase as road work shifts to the west side of the Norfolk Southern Railroad bridge. Beginning Tuesday, February 25, through mid-July, the work zone will extend from Bowtown Road to Foley Street. This change will bring significant traffic modifications, including lane shifts, closures, and intermittent flagging. Drivers are urged to expect delays while these changes take effect.

Traffic Adjustments and Roadway Modifications

As construction progresses, eastbound and westbound traffic will be shifted onto narrowed lanes, reducing the space available for motorists. Additionally, the westbound U.S. 36 (E. William St.) left turn lane will be closed, and left turns onto Public Works Drive will be prohibited. Throughout the week, traffic signals will be modified, new paint markings applied, and traffic rerouted. These changes will require periodic flagging to guide vehicles safely through the work zone.

For those seeking real-time updates, the City of Delaware has established a project webpage with live video feeds and other resources at www.delawareohio.net/pointproject. Questions regarding the project can be directed to pointproject@delawareohio.net.

Project Goals: Safety and Efficiency Improvements

The Point Improvement Project is designed to alleviate congestion and enhance safety along U.S. 36 (William Street) and Ohio 37 (Central Avenue) by expanding the number of lanes beneath the railroad bridge. These roadways currently see an average of 25,000 vehicles per day, with traffic models predicting an increase to nearly 40,000 vehicles per day by 2040.

Key upgrades include:

• A multi-use path on the north side of U.S. 36/37 extending to the Ohio 521 intersection.
• A new sidewalk along the north side of U.S. 36/37 extending east to Bowtown Road.
• Dual approach lanes west of the bridge, allowing more vehicles to pass through each green light cycle.
• Intersection improvements at Bowtown Road and Ohio 521, including additional turn lanes.
• Upgrades to water mains, storm sewers, street lighting, and landscaping to enhance the roadway’s long-term functionality.

These enhancements aim to reduce traffic congestion, improve pedestrian access, and create a more efficient flow of vehicles through the high-traffic corridor.

Project Timeline, Cost, and Funding Sources

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is managing the project, with Shelly & Sands serving as the construction contractor. The project is scheduled for completion by summer 2026 at a total cost of $44.36 million.

Funding Breakdown:

With construction ramping up, residents and commuters are encouraged to plan alternate routes, stay informed through the City’s project webpage, and exercise patience as Delaware’s infrastructure undergoes these significant improvements.

Source, Image: City of Delaware