By 1808Delaware
Drivers traveling north on Interstate 71 near Delaware will encounter an important traffic change beginning overnight Friday, October 16 as a new exit configuration takes effect at U.S. Route 36 and State Route 37.
The change means motorists heading toward Delaware will need to make their decision to exit earlier than they do now. Should they enter the designated exit lane, they will be committed to leaving the interstate and not continue forward.
A New Exit Pattern
Under the new configuration, drivers planning to take U.S. 36/SR 37 must move into the exit lane sooner because the exit will begin earlier along northbound I-71, whereas motorists continuing north on I-71 should remain to the left in the main travel lanes. The most significant difference involves a new barrier wall separating the exit lane from the interstate’s through lanes. Once a vehicle enters the exit lane, drivers will no longer be able to merge back onto northbound I-71. That makes advance preparation especially important for motorists accustomed to the existing interchange layout.
The arrangement is similar to the exit configurations already in use along I-71 at Polaris Parkway and Gemini Place, where dedicated lanes separate exiting traffic from vehicles continuing on the interstate.
Part Of A Larger Highway Project
The new traffic pattern also represents a step toward future substantial changes along the I-71 corridor. Eventually, the dedicated exit lane will provide access not only to U.S. 36/SR 37 but also to the planned interchange connecting I-71 with Sunbury Parkway. For now, however, the immediate impact will be felt by drivers approaching the existing U.S. 36/SR 37 exit.
Motorists who regularly use the interchange should pay particular attention during their first trips through the revised configuration, especially after dark or during periods of heavy traffic.
The essential message is straightforward: Drivers heading toward Delaware should prepare to exit earlier, while those continuing north on I-71 should keep left. With a barrier preventing last-minute lane changes, choosing the correct lane before reaching the exit will be more important than ever.
Source, Photo: ODOT
