
Ohio – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has announced an $8.7 million investment to support four bridge modernization and repair projects through its Local Major Bridge Program. This funding will benefit Franklin, Fairfield, Hamilton, and Lake counties, helping to enhance safety, improve infrastructure, and support economic growth.
Governor DeWine Highlights the Importance of Infrastructure Investment
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine emphasized the critical role of investing in local bridges, stating:
“Investing in our local bridges builds safer connections and supports our economy by keeping our transportation system moving. Every dollar spent on bridge infrastructure is a direct investment in the security and prosperity of our communities.”
Since 2022, when Governor DeWine expanded the definition of a “local major bridge,” ODOT has funded 24 projects totaling $78 million, significantly boosting the state’s transportation infrastructure.
Breakdown of Funded Bridge Projects
The newly announced $8.7 million will be allocated to the following four bridge projects:
County | Project Name | Project Description | Fiscal Year | Funding Amount |
---|---|---|---|---|
Fairfield | CR 33A Major Preventative Maintenance | Repainting of the CR 33A bridge over Broad Street | 2029 | $1,081,620 |
Franklin | Fishinger Road Bridge Rehabilitation | Repainting steel beams, installing a new concrete surface, and adding a shared-use path over the Scioto River | 2029 | $6,556,736 |
Hamilton | Suspension Bridge Road Major Preventative Maintenance | New asphalt surface, expansion joint replacement, guardrail upgrades, and other maintenance over the Whitewater River | 2029 | $932,800 |
Lake | Vrooman Road Major Preventative Maintenance | Sealing the bridge deck of Vrooman Road bridge over the Grand River and Seeley Road | 2029 | $176,880 |
Total Funding | $8,748,036 |
The Local Major Bridge Program and Its Impact
The Local Major Bridge Program provides federal funding to counties and municipalities for critical bridge replacement, rehabilitation, demolition, and maintenance projects. To qualify, a bridge must be either a moveable/lift bridge or have a deck area greater than 15,000 square feet.
ODOT will fund up to 80% of eligible costs for all phases of the awarded projects, with a maximum project cap of $20 million.
ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn reinforced the importance of this program, stating:
“Local communities depend on ODOT funding programs to maximize their infrastructure dollars and ensure their transportation assets are safe and reliable for years to come.”
Application Process and Future Funding Opportunities
Each year, ODOT accepts applications for the Local Major Bridge Program between September 1 and October 15. Funding requests undergo a comprehensive review process, evaluated by a multi-disciplinary committee specializing in funding, program management, safety, environmental considerations, and bridge analysis.
By investing in bridge rehabilitation and modernization, ODOT is ensuring long-term reliability and safety for Ohio’s communities, fostering economic growth and maintaining essential transportation networks across the state.