
Blaine, Ohio – The Blaine Hill Arches of Memory Bridge, a vital community connection in Belmont County, will undergo major rehabilitation starting this summer, following efforts by the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) to accelerate the project. Originally planned for 2027, the project’s timeline has been moved up, with a contractor set to be hired in April 2025 and construction beginning shortly thereafter.
A Critical Update for the Community
ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn emphasized the importance of expediting the project to restore the bridge as quickly as possible.
“We know how important this bridge is to the community. Our goal has always been to reopen the bridge as quickly as possible. Our team has worked tirelessly to find a better solution, and we are excited to share this update with the community,” said Boratyn.
The bridge, which has been closed since August 2024, is now expected to reopen in the summer of 2026, a full year ahead of the revised 2027 timeline.
Rep. Ron Ferguson acknowledged the efforts to move the schedule forward, stating:
“I have worked diligently on behalf of Belmont County residents to ensure the Blaine Hill Bridge will be re-opened as quickly and safely as possible. I’m pleased that through our efforts we’ve moved up the timeline to begin work from 2027 to 2025.”
Structural Concerns and Deterioration
Federal regulations require bridges to be inspected at least once every two years, but due to the rapid deterioration of the Blaine Hill Bridge, ODOT increased inspections to once every three months in 2023, and eventually once per month in 2024.
In July 2024, traffic on the bridge was reduced to a single eastbound lane due to worsening conditions. By August 5, 2024, ODOT determined that a full closure was necessary after an inspection revealed severe structural issues, including:
- Large sections of crumbling concrete, which reduced the bridge’s ability to support weight.
- Water infiltration, which worsened during winter as freezing expanded cracks.
- Failing box beams, which are crucial for distributing stress across the bridge structure.
- Deteriorating pier caps, which could cause structural failure if left unchecked.
The bridge was inspected again on January 23, 2025, confirming that conditions had worsened despite being closed to traffic. The findings ruled out reopening even a single lane due to the risk of collapse.
The Rehabilitation Plan
The project will focus on preserving the bridge’s historic significance while improving safety and durability. Planned upgrades include:
- Removing the existing deck and replacing it with modern, long-lasting materials.
- Replacing 400 deteriorated box beams to strengthen the bridge’s structure.
- Restoring the decorative concrete railing, maintaining the bridge’s architectural integrity.
- Repairing support columns to ensure stability for future use.
ODOT Deputy Director Tom Corey explained why the urgency to accelerate the project was necessary:
“Concrete spalling and crumbling bridge beams and pier caps are not minor defects. Every time we put weight on the bridge, we are adding stress that makes the existing problems worse. Allowing traffic back on the bridge would risk a collapse that could take lives and lead to a much longer closure of this critical community connection. That’s why accelerating the timeline even more for the rehabilitation project was so important to our team.”
A Commitment to Infrastructure and Safety
State officials have stressed that the balance between safety and historic preservation is a top priority. Sen. Brian Chavez praised ODOT’s commitment to both:
“I am grateful for the Ohio Department of Transportation and District 11 understanding residents’ concerns to accelerate this project without compromising safety and quality work, all while preserving the bridge’s historic landmark status. It is crucial to improve our state’s infrastructure to make Ohioans’ commutes secure and efficient without neglecting safety.”
The updated schedule ensures that the Blaine Hill Arches of Memory Bridge will be rebuilt with resilient materials, extending its lifespan and maintaining its historical and functional significance.
As ODOT continues design work and prepares to bring on a contractor in April 2025, the community can expect updates on construction progress. The project, now set to be completed by summer 2026, reflects a proactive effort to restore a crucial link for local residents while addressing critical safety concerns.
This accelerated timeline demonstrates a strong commitment to infrastructure, public safety, and historic preservation, ensuring that the Blaine Hill Bridge remains a safe and functional landmark for future generations.