Cleveland, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 12 has announced the launch of a massive $173 million construction project to replace pavement along I-90 between West Boulevard and Hilliard Boulevard, spanning Rocky River, Lakewood, and Cleveland. The project, one of the largest in the region, also includes replacing the median barrier wall, improving drainage systems, widening shoulders in certain areas, and updating overhead lighting.
Officials confirmed that the estimated completion date for this major undertaking is October 2028. This busy stretch of highway, originally constructed between the 1960s and 1970s, currently carries more than 140,000 vehicles on an average day, making it a critical transportation corridor in Northeast Ohio.
Construction Timeline and Traffic Adjustments
Work is set to begin Monday, August 4, starting with various off-peak lane restrictions to allow crews to install temporary pavement. Once the temporary pavement is complete, both eastbound and westbound traffic will be shifted to the outside shoulders to make room for the next phase of construction.
On Friday, August 8, I-90 eastbound between Hilliard Boulevard and Alger Road will be reduced from four lanes to three. ODOT officials noted that additional lane restrictions and ramp closures will continue throughout the duration of the project, with updates to be provided as the work progresses.
As construction begins, ODOT is urging motorists to exercise caution when traveling through work zones. “Simple, responsible driving behaviors, such as obeying the work zone speed limit, paying attention to work zone signage, maintaining a safe following distance, and eliminating distractions, can go a long way in protecting not only motorists but also the men and women working to repair and maintain our roadways,” the department emphasized.
Drivers are also reminded to Move Over or Slow Down for all vehicles with flashing lights stopped on the side of the road, a law designed to protect workers and emergency personnel.
The I-90 pavement replacement is expected to improve long-term roadway safety, traffic flow, and infrastructure reliability for decades to come, marking a significant investment in Ohio’s transportation future.
