In Belmont County, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is gearing up for a significant restoration project as it targets the historic U.S. Route 40 bridge. The initiative, dubbed the Blaine Hill Arches of Memory Rehabilitation Project, will strengthen the bridge's structural integrity and preserve its historical essence.
Starting the week of March 10, ODOT crews will begin preparation work that encompasses both areas beneath and atop the Blaine Bridge. Following comprehensive safety inspections to secure a safe environment for the crew and machinery, some segments of the bridge with signs of deterioration will be accessed from underneath using a lift, according to ODOT's announcement. Meanwhile, contractors will be busy with tree-cutting work in the vicinity, running through March.
The overall project is set to breathe new life into the bridge by replacing beams, the deck, and the railing while keeping the architectural spirit of the past alive. Michael Baker International, the design firm tasked with the design plans, is ensuring this balance between modernity and history.
Big moves for the project are on the horizon. It is slated to go on sale in April 2025, with construction anticipated to kick off the following month. If all goes as planned, the renewed bridge is expected to welcome travelers again by 2026. Should you have any questions, concerns, or comments, you're encouraged to reach out to Lauren Borell, District Public Information Officer, at 330-308-7817 or via email at [email protected].
