By 1808Delaware
A well-used stretch of the Ohio to Erie Trail in Westerville is set for a major refresh next summer, bringing a smoother pavement surface and new safety features to a corridor used by walkers, cyclists, runners, and other trail users.
The City of Westerville is planning to reconstruct the section of trail between Old County Line Road and Electric Avenue, with construction anticipated to begin in June 2026. The work is expected to take no more than one month.
A Stronger Trail Surface
The project will rebuild the existing trail section with an improved 4.5-inch pavement profile, creating a more durable surface within the trail’s current footprint. No off-pavement work is planned. Because the work will take place along the existing paved alignment, the project is designed as a single-phase construction effort. During that period, portions of the current trail will be closed.
New Beacons At Key Crossings
In addition to the pavement reconstruction, the project will add flashing beacons at several trail intersections. Those locations include Park Street, College Avenue, Broadway Avenue, Old County Line Road, and Hoff Road.
The beacons are intended to improve visibility and safety where trail users cross local streets, particularly along a route that serves both recreational users and those traveling through Westerville as part of the larger Ohio to Erie Trail network.
Detour During Construction
The City will work with the Ohio Department of Transportation to develop and communicate a signed detour before construction begins. The planned detour will use the Alum Creek, Cleveland Avenue, and Polaris Parkway trails from their connection points with the Ohio to Erie Trail. While the existing trail section will be closed during construction, access to the broader Ohio to Erie Trail route will remain available through the detour.
Temporary Impacts Near Hanby Park
The project is expected to temporarily affect access between the trail and Hanby Park.
The Ohio to Erie Trail runs along the western edge of Hanby Park and intersects with the park’s west access point to picnic pavilions and restrooms. During construction, that trail-side access point will not be available for about one month. Hanby Park itself will remain open and accessible through alternative sidewalk access points. One is located northeast of the park near Park and Summit streets, while another is located southeast of the park at Summit and Plum streets.
Looking Ahead
For regular trail users, the temporary closure will mean a short-term adjustment during early summer 2026. Once complete, the rebuilt section is expected to offer a smoother ride, a more durable trail surface, and improved safety at several important crossings. Construction is anticipated to begin in June 2026 and is expected to last no longer than one month.
