By 1808Delaware
After years of shifting lanes and patient drivers, one of Delaware’s most complex road projects is entering its final chapter.
The Point Improvement Project, a long-term effort to improve safety, traffic flow, and infrastructure at a key community gateway, is now in its last year. Several major milestones are expected this spring and summer as work moves toward an August 2026 completion.
Central Avenue will close for 45 days
A full closure of Central Avenue west of The Point is expected to begin in mid-to-late March and last about 45 days. The closure will allow crews to complete road surface upgrades that cannot be safely done while traffic continues to pass through the corridor. More specific timing and detour information will be shared in March.
Utility work comes first for a reason
Before paving begins, crews will finish the remaining water main work along Central Avenue in early March. By completing underground utility upgrades now, the City avoids the need to disturb newly finished pavement later to address aging infrastructure below.
Traffic improvements already visible
Some benefits of the project are already noticeable to drivers.
- Dual eastbound left-turn lanes on U.S. 36/37 are now open for traffic turning north onto Ohio 521
- Dual northbound left-turn lanes on Mill Run Crossing are open for traffic turning west onto U.S. 36/37
These changes are designed to reduce congestion and improve the overall flow of traffic through the intersection.
Railroad traffic shifts in April
In coordination with the Ohio Department of Transportation and the project contractor, Norfolk Southern is expected to move rail traffic onto the permanent railroad bridge in April. After that shift, the temporary rail bridge will be removed and crews will complete the remaining road widening work beneath the tracks.
Funding and the final timeline
Before construction began, the City secured significant grant funding to reduce the amount of local dollars required.
The total project cost is $44,360,000, with $5,610,000, or 12.6 percent, funded by the City of Delaware.
For many drivers, construction at The Point has become part of the daily routine. In the months ahead, the most disruptive pieces will take place, but they are also the last. More information and updates are available at delawareohio.net/pointproject.
