$156 million in projects had been on hold during transportation budget debate
COLUMBUS – With the Ohio Department of Transportation facing major funding issues at the beginning of 2019, the Department delayed about $156 million in maintenance projects to balance the budget. However, with additional funding coming from the Transportation Budget (House Bill 62) those projects are back on schedule.
“These maintenance projects extend the life of our roads and bridges. We want to make sure we’re doing the best job possible to take care of the investment the public has made in transportation,” said ODOT Director Dr. Jack Marchbanks.
Without the increased revenue, these projects likely would not have been completed and more costly major repair or replacement projects would have been required in the future.
“Just like a vehicle, it is much cheaper to change the oil regularly than replace the entire engine. Roads and bridges don’t get better with age. They require attention and regular maintenance,” said Marchbanks.
The projects include bridge painting, bridge deck replacement, minor repair work, and roadway resurfacing.