Chillicothe, Ohio – A significant step forward is underway for the multi-year rehabilitation of U.S. 23 and U.S. 35 in southern Ohio, as construction crews prepare to enter the final phase of the project. Beginning Sunday, November 2, major traffic shifts and ramp closures will go into effect to allow for extensive repair work along key sections of the highway and its bridge infrastructure.
As part of this next phase, southbound U.S. 23 traffic will be redirected across the median onto the northbound side of the highway just north of the Scioto River. It will then return to the southbound side after passing East Main Street. Eastbound U.S. 35 traffic will be confined to the shoulder, giving construction crews the space needed to safely work on the two left lanes of the bypass and on bridges spanning the Scioto River and East Main Street.
In tandem with these traffic shifts, the entrance and exit ramps at East Main Street will also close for a 45-day period to allow for ramp rehabilitation. While the closures are in place, drivers trying to access southbound U.S. 23 or eastbound U.S. 35 from East Main Street will need to travel north on U.S. 23, exit at State Route 159 (North Bridge Street), and loop back onto the southbound route. This detour is expected to add about 10 minutes to travel times. Motorists who need to exit at East Main Street can continue south on U.S. 23, exit at Eastern Avenue, and then head north on U.S. 23—adding roughly 4 minutes to their trip.
The Ohio Department of Transportation urges all drivers to remain cautious in the work zone. “Drivers are reminded to pay attention, allow extra space between their vehicle and vehicles in front of them, and obey the reduced speed limit through the work zone.” Officials emphasized that “following too close and speed are among the top factors in work zone crashes,” making it critical for motorists to stay alert and avoid distractions while driving through the affected area.
Shelly & Sands, the contractor managing the rehabilitation effort, continues to make steady progress on this multi-stage project. All work is currently scheduled to be completed by 2026. Until then, drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, expect delays, and prioritize safety when traveling through the construction zone.
