ODOT seeks more feedback on 77-250-39 intersection upgrade
NEW PHILADELPHIA – Just over 100 people showed up at Buckeye Career Center Tuesday to learn about and provide feedback on the Ohio Department of Transportation’s plans for a major reconfiguration of the I-77-U.S. 250-State Route 39 intersection in New Philadelphia.
ODOT spokesperson Lauren Borell says most agreed that a revamp is much needed, but not all were fans of the addition of roundabouts. Borell says roundabouts are a tough sell, but officials believe they are far safer than traditional intersections.
The plan, still in the conceptual stage, has nine locations for improvements. It calls for direct ramps between 77 and 250 with a pair of roundabouts on state Route 39 at Blue Bell Drive and at the I-77 ramps on the other side of the 39 bridge over the Tuscarawas River.
Residents can continue to share feedback on the proposal on ODOT’s website and links through their social media page. You can also find renderings and more information through this link:
https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/projects/projects/122790
ODOT will use the feedback to streamline the proposal before hosting another open house, likely in March. After that, officials will start looking for funding opportunities.
