AKRON, Ohio — Editor's Note: The above video features coverage of ODOT's 2022 construction projects
The Ohio Department of Transportation has announced plans for major repairs and improvements to many different points along Interstate 76 in Akron.
The $100 million investment in infrastructure will aim to improve the I-76/I-77 interchange and the I-76/I-277/US-224 “Kenmore Leg” interchange of the highway system in the city of Akron.
The project is currently in the early stages of planning and development. Construction may begin as early as 2026, according to ODOT.
ODOT plans to provide the public with more information as the schedule is further developed.
This infrastructure project has roots all the way back to 2002, when studies on the problem areas along Interstate 76 started to become apparent. The studies found major issues including congestion and safety problems in the Central Interchange and Kenmore Leg.
Along with the locations for major improvement, ODOT also provided a list of bridges on the Kenmore Leg that will need to be rehabilitated and have the dimensions changed in some cases to increase lifespan:
- I-76/U.S.-224 over CSX Railroad
- I-76 over I-277/U.S.-224
- I-76 over CSX Railroad
- I-76 over Wilbeth Road
- I-76 over Kenmore Boulevard
- I-76 over Battles Avenue
- I-76 over Morse Street
- I-76 over I-77 (two ramps)
- I-77 over Hawkins Avenue
- I-77 over Vernon Odom Boulevard (SR 261)
- The bridge carrying eastbound I-76 over Morse Street will need to be replaced
ODOT is currently working on plans to keep traffic flow as seamless as possible once the construction starts to minimize as much congestion during the process as possible.
Before the 2026 start date, I-76 will be widened between Central Avenue and the Kenmore Leg which is expected to be completed by Summer 2022. I-77 will be widened between Arlington Road and U.S. 224 with an expected completion date by Summer 2024. I-76/I-77/SR 8 Akron Beltway Improvements are expected to be completed by Summer 2025.
For more information on the Kenmore Leg project, visit ODOT's website.
Those who wish to make a comment on the project are encouraged to contact Robert Lang, ODOT Environmental Specialist at Robert.Lang@dot.ohio.gov or call 330-786-4975. Comments are requested by September 8, 2022.
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Editor's Note: The above video features reporting on Kenmore Leg improvements in 2021.