Akron, Ohio – One of the largest and most ambitious infrastructure undertakings in northeast Ohio is approaching the finish line, marking a major milestone for transportation in the Akron area.
On Tuesday, Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 4 Deputy Director Gery Noirot, Akron Mayor Shammas Malik, and several local leaders gathered with project personnel to mark the ceremonial opening of the newly reconstructed Central Interchange — a complex and transformative project that represents the largest in District 4 history.
A $161 Million Project That Transformed Akron’s Freeways
Launched in the summer of 2021, the Central Interchange project carried a total price tag of $161 million and was led by the Ruhlin and Shelly & Sands Joint Venture. Funding came from a combination of ODOT Preservation, ODOT Safety, TRAC, and ODOT Major Rehabilitation sources.
The scope of the project was extensive and covered major sections of three highways. It included the full replacement of pavement and lane additions on I-77 from just north of I-277/U.S. 224 and Lovers Lane, and pavement replacement along I-76/I-77 from Princeton Avenue to the I-77/SR 261 interchange. Crews also replaced pavement on I-76, I-77, and SR 8 directly at the Central Interchange. Additionally, SR 8 was resurfaced, and a southbound lane was added between Carroll Street and Beacon Street.
In total, 45 lane miles of pavement were reconstructed, and more than 40 bridges were repaired, underscoring the massive scale of the effort.
New Ramp Design Improves Flow and Safety
Among the most impactful changes was the realignment of key ramps at the Central Interchange. Specifically, the ramps from I-76 westbound to I-77 southbound and I-76 eastbound to SR 8 were completely redesigned. These improvements eliminate sharp curves that previously forced traffic to slow down to 25 miles per hour. Now, with a more gradual turning radius, drivers will experience smoother transitions between highways — easing congestion and improving safety.
“We know the people who work, live, and travel through this area had to deal with a lot of inconvenience, delay, and frustration. We appreciate their patience as we made these significant improvements. The result will be a huge benefit to those traveling to and through the Akron area,” said Noirot.
Final Touches Still to Come
While the interchange has been ceremonially opened, some minor work remains. Bridge painting and other miscellaneous finishing items are still underway, with final completion expected by November.
“This project provides Akron with an enhanced gateway as well as a freeway system that is a safer and more efficient mover of traffic. It took a lot of teamwork and planning to get it done. I’m proud of all the hard work that went into it,” Noirot added.
With traffic expected to flow more efficiently and safely, the Central Interchange project stands as a major achievement for Akron and northeast Ohio, benefiting commuters and the region’s economy for years to come.
