Willoughby, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is preparing to launch a major infrastructure project aimed at completely rehabilitating a heavily traveled section of Interstate 90. This proposed effort will affect a six-mile corridor between the Kirtland Road bridge overpass and the Morley Road bridge overpass, spanning multiple jurisdictions, including Willoughby, Mentor, Kirtland Hills, and Concord Township in Lake County.
According to ODOT, the project will involve full-depth pavement replacement along this stretch of I-90, including work at critical interchange ramps such as State Route 306 and State Route 615. Improvements will also be made to the Concord and Lake Rest Area ramps. Additional work will include bridge rehabilitation at six overpass locations, upgrades to drainage systems, new traffic signage and pavement markings, and enhanced lighting at key interchanges.
The goal of the project is to address the aging road surface, improve driving conditions, reduce maintenance costs, and introduce long-term infrastructure updates necessary for modern transportation demands. The section of highway in question currently supports an average daily traffic load of over 65,000 vehicles. Much of the pavement dates back to original construction in the 1960s and 1970s, highlighting the urgency of the planned upgrades.
Construction Timeline and Traffic Impacts
Construction is expected to begin in 2027 and continue through 2032, with an estimated total cost of $98 million. ODOT has noted that throughout the construction process, motorists should anticipate traffic shifts, ramp closures, lane reductions, and other temporary changes. Detour routes will be posted to help drivers navigate the affected areas.
While the project will bring major changes to the I-90 corridor, early environmental assessments indicate that impacts will be minor. Efforts are being made to limit disruptions to wetlands, streams, and floodplains. No additional property will need to be acquired, as all work is expected to take place within the existing right-of-way.
Public Input Period Open
ODOT is currently seeking public feedback on the proposed project. Residents and commuters are encouraged to submit comments online through the official project page at:
https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/projects/projects/116955
Alternatively, written comments can be sent to Tom Sorge, District Environmental Coordinator, at 5500 Transportation Blvd., Garfield Heights, OH 44125. Questions or comments can also be directed by phone at 216-584-2086 or via email at [email protected]. The public comment period remains open until September 25, 2025.
