By 1808Delaware
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has released its latest update on the ambitious Point Project aimed at easing congestion and enhancing safety along one of Delaware County’s most heavily traveled corridors. As construction ramps up, several new and continuing traffic impacts will take effect—bringing temporary inconvenience but long-term improvements for local drivers.
New Overnight Closure on U.S. 36 for Storm Sewer Work
Drivers should prepare for an overnight full closure of U.S. 36/E. William Street between Foley Street and Public Works Drive beginning Sunday, April 27, from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This closure is necessary for storm sewer installation, a key component of infrastructure upgrades along the route.
Suggested Detour: U.S. 36 to U.S. 23 to SR 750 to I-71 to U.S. 36 (or reverse).
SR 521 Bridge Replacement to Begin April 28
A long-term closure is coming to State Route 521 starting Monday, April 28, as crews begin replacing aging bridges between Blue Church Road and SR 61. The closure is expected to last approximately 45 days.
Suggested Detour: SR 61 to U.S. 36/SR 37 to SR 521 (or reverse).
Continuing Traffic Changes Along U.S. 36/SR 37
Construction continues at “The Point” with multiple adjustments to traffic flow already in place:
- The south half of U.S. 36 between Foley Street and the railroad bridge remains closed since February 25, although two-way traffic is being maintained.
- Left turns from westbound U.S. 36 onto Public Works Drive are no longer permitted.
- The southbound right-turn lane from SR 521 onto U.S. 36/SR 37 is also closed through Spring 2025. Right turns must be made using the through lane.
- Since December 20, two lanes in each direction are open between Bowtown Road and Sky View Lane, though traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction under the railroad bridge. Access to Bowtown Road has been restored.
About The Point Project
At the heart of the improvements is the goal to reduce congestion and enhance safety at one of Delaware’s busiest intersections: where U.S. 36 (William Street) meets Ohio 37 (Central Avenue) under the Norfolk Southern Railroad bridge.
Currently, an estimated 25,000 vehicles pass through daily. Without intervention, traffic projections suggest that number could swell to nearly 40,000 vehicles per day by 2040. By expanding lanes under the bridge and improving nearby intersections, the project aims to eliminate frequent peak-hour backups and better serve the region’s growing population.
Plan Ahead, Drive Smart
As always, ODOT encourages drivers to plan ahead, allow for extra travel time, and use alternate routes where possible during closures and delays. The temporary inconveniences will pay off in a smoother, safer commute for decades to come.
For ongoing updates, visit ODOT’s District 6 website or follow them on social media.
Source: ODOT; Image: City of Delaware
