ODOT Announces Delaware Residents Quicker Access Via 23
Ohio Department of Transportation has been undertaking a massive overhaul of central Ohio’s most problematic Interstate locations. Recently, it announced a plan that would directly impact commuters traveling into Delaware County that utilize 23 via I-270.
Preliminary views of the revised interchange at U.S. 23 and I-270 according to the Ohio Department of Transportation.
Beginning in 2014, ODOT will reconfigure the “challenging” interchange that makes up U.S. 23 from the south and I-270 east-bound exit onto U.S. 23.
However, the biggest enhancement is the addition of express lanes that will run underneath the primary U.S. 23 roadway and allow drivers to approach Delaware County while avoiding stoplights at Crosswoods and Flint Road.
Toby’s Take…
It is an interesting concept. The redesign of the interchange is much-needed as anyone that’s tried to head east along 270 at rush-hour would know. The increase usage of State Route 315 as a limited access highway through Columbus and the dual-use of the U.S. 23 exit and 315 entryway makes for a dangerous location.
However, it is the express-lane that I am curious about. I want to know more about the cost before I get too excited but …
- The express lane is only about 3/4 of a mile long. Is it worth the cost? I’ve experienced and enjoyed the express-way concept driving through Cleveland en route to destinations beyond the local community. However, in this case, the two lanes are bypassing two traffic lights and dropping you into a 45-mile-per-hour stop-and-go hell that is U.S. 23 south of Powell Road (St. Rte. 750).
- What will the impact be on Crosswoods? Crosswoods is a business development that seems to have been on its last leg for the past decade. Is this the final nail in the coffin?
- Will it Help? Depends on how you define “help” and whom are you helping. Assuming that a large percentage of those exiting I-270 on U.S. 23 North are moving into Delaware County then it seems this will simply move the congestion from Campus View Drive and U.S. 23 to the light at Northwoods Boulevard.
There is no price tag listed on any of the project which makes it a challenging evaluation.
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