The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 1 is actively seeking public input on a host of proposed roadwork projects slated for 2026. Residents and stakeholders have until December 20, 2024, to voice their concerns or support for the various infrastructure updates. From resurfacing major thoroughfares to reconstructing highway shoulders, the planned undertakings are detailed on ODOT's project pages, providing the public with ample information to make informed comments.
Within Hancock County, ODOT plans to fully resurface a 13.52-mile stretch of State Route 37, a process necessitating temporary closures and detours set to take place in the summer of 2026. For Paulding County, a shoulder reconstruction on State Route 111 spanning 5.59 miles is on the agenda. It aims to improve safety significantly and is anticipated to commence in the fall of 2026. ODOT has assured us that these closures will maintain local traffic access to all properties during construction. ODOT emphasizes the importance of public feedback on these matters.
Further south in Putnam County, ODOT proposes a roadway reconstruction and elevation project on State Route 634, intended to mitigate erosion by a stream relocation. In Van Wert County, multiple routes, including State Route 697 and State Routes 116 and 117, are scheduled for resurfacing using echelon paving. These works aim to be conducted in the summer and fall of 2026. The projects, while disruptive, promise to enhance the sustainability and usability of the roads in question for years.
Wyandot County also features in the wave of upgrades, with State Route 53 poised for a significant resurfacing effort over 9.22 miles. ODOT has linked extensive project details and contact information for each undertaking, encouraging the public to visit their website and submit any thoughts or concerns. Across Allen, Defiance, Hancock, and Wyandot counties, strategic bridge painting is planned to protect and maintain these critical structures. The construction for these bridge projects is prepared to occur between spring and fall of 2026. Accurate public participation is essential in shaping these public works' most equitable and efficient outcomes.
ODOT's call for commentary reflects a broader democratic process, underpinning the commitment to an infrastructure that aligns with local needs and sensitivities. Residents are urged to provide written commentary directly to Nate Tessler to facilitate this communication. ODOT encourages including the project name, PID number, and contact details to ensure a responsive process. Comments received sans contact information, as ODOT highlights, will not receive a response. All project-related concerns, including those touching upon historic or cultural resources, ecological matters, and environmental justice issues, are within the scope of the review.
