Dayton, Ohio – In an effort to enhance safety, accessibility, and recreational experiences throughout Dayton, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 7 is requesting public feedback on several upcoming projects. These developments include improvements to Gettysburg Avenue, resurfacing of a beloved recreational trail, and a lane reduction and safety overhaul on West Third Street. All residents are encouraged to provide comments by January 31, 2026, to ensure their voices are heard.
Gettysburg Avenue Reconstruction Plans Updated
Gettysburg Avenue Phase 3 Improvements (PID 119366) involve a major update to a critical roadway segment from West Second Street to Hoover Avenue. The City of Dayton proposes to reconstruct this stretch of Gettysburg Avenue, removing two traffic signals located at Gettysburg Avenue & West Second Street and Gettysburg Avenue & Oakridge Drive. These changes come after an evaluation concluded that neither intersection meets federal criteria for signalization under a federally funded project.
In place of the signals, stop signs will be installed at both intersections. City officials stress that these modifications are necessary for compliance with federal regulations and are expected to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety.
To discuss this and other proposals, a stakeholder meeting is scheduled for January 21, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at 4303 West Third Street. “The public is welcome to attend,” city officials emphasized, inviting all community members to share their thoughts and concerns.
Trail Improvements Aim to Enhance Recreational Experience
The Stillwater River Recreation Trail Resurfacing (PID 119405) is another project in the pipeline. The Miami Conservancy District plans to resurface a deteriorated segment of the Stillwater River Recreation Trail, which is also part of the Great Miami River Recreation Trail. This stretch runs from the Gayle B. Price Bridge to Wegerzyn Road, just north of East Siebenthaler Avenue.
Along with resurfacing, the project will introduce new amenities designed to enrich users’ experiences. These features include bench swings, dog waste stations, and historical markers to enhance both comfort and community engagement. The project is expected to begin in Spring 2028 and take approximately three months to complete.
West Third Street to Undergo Major Safety Overhaul
Another significant infrastructure change comes with the West Third Street Safety Improvements (PID 123410). In collaboration with ODOT, the City of Dayton is planning to reduce West Third Street from five lanes to three between Abbey Avenue and James H. McGee Boulevard.
The redesign will incorporate a designated parking lane on the north side of the street and a cycle track on the south side. The changes aim to improve safety by promoting more appropriate driving speeds and offering better support for multi-modal transportation options, such as cycling and walking. Construction is anticipated to begin in Fall 2027 and take up to 12 months to complete. This project will also be discussed at the January 21 stakeholder meeting.
How to Participate and Submit Comments
ODOT encourages public participation in shaping these community-oriented projects. Issues that residents may want to address include the impact on local traffic patterns, air quality, cultural or historical resources, and overall economic effects.
Community members can send comments by January 31, 2026, either by phone or email to:
Jared Steege
Phone: 937-497-6847
Email: [email protected]
More detailed information about these and other transportation projects can be found on the ODOT Projects webpage.
With projects that promise to reshape both how people move through and enjoy Dayton, public input will play a vital role in ensuring improvements meet the needs of residents now and in the future.
