Chauncey, Ohio – A permanent traffic change is coming to Athens County as transportation officials move forward with plans aimed at improving safety along a busy highway corridor.
The Ohio Department of Transportation District 10 has announced that the Chauncey Cutoff, which connects State Route 682 and U.S. 33, will be permanently closed starting April 6. Along with the roadway closure, the Park and Ride lot located at the Chauncey Cutoff will also shut down for good on the same date.
Closure tied to safety improvements along U.S. 33
Officials say the decision is part of a broader effort to make travel safer along U.S. 33. Over the past year, roundabouts were constructed at the intersection of U.S. 33 and SR 682 in The Plains. These roundabouts are designed to handle increased traffic flow and reduce the risk of crashes, making them a key part of the new traffic plan.
With those improvements now in place, ODOT believes the Chauncey Cutoff is no longer needed and that traffic can be redirected more safely through the updated intersection.
Drivers who previously used the Chauncey Cutoff to access westbound U.S. 33 will now continue along SR 682 to The Plains and use the designated U.S. 33 west exit at the roundabouts. Meanwhile, drivers traveling on U.S. 33 who had been using the cutoff will instead take Exit 191 toward The Plains and Chauncey.
Drivers advised to adjust travel routes
The permanent closure means motorists will need to adjust their usual routes and plan for slightly different travel patterns in the area. While the change may take some time for drivers to get used to, officials say the updated system is designed to improve overall traffic flow and reduce confusion.
By shifting traffic to the newly built roundabouts, ODOT aims to create a safer and more predictable driving experience for those traveling through Athens County.
