The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has announced the Blaine Hill Arches of Memory Rehabilitation Project, aimed at rebuilding the historic U.S. Route 40 bridge in Belmont County, Ohio. The project will involve changes to the current lane configuration to enhance safety and accommodate both bicycle and pedestrian traffic. The new design will reduce the lanes from three to two, featuring a 12-foot shoulder on the westbound side and a 3-foot sidewalk along with a 4-foot shoulder on the eastbound side.
This modification is coordinated with ODOT’s Office of Roadway Engineering Services and the Office of Structural Engineering to align with Federal Highway Administration initiatives. Despite these changes, construction remains on schedule to begin in Spring 2025.
To expedite construction, contractors will work two ten-hour shifts six days a week, including night work. A minor temporary right-of-way will be required, and utility lines under the bridge will be relocated.
ODOT is seeking public feedback on potential social, environmental, and economic impacts of the project. This includes considerations for archaeological, architectural, ecological resources, hazardous materials, and other factors related to the project’s location.
The rehabilitation will have minor impacts on Wheeling Creek and habitats for federally protected bat species but has been determined not to adversely affect the bridge’s historic nature or its inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places.
Michael Baker International is designing the project which is set for sale in April 2025. Construction is expected to start in May with completion anticipated in 2026.
For comments or questions regarding this project, contact District Public Information Officer Lauren Borell at 330-308-7817 or via email at D11.PIO@dot.ohio.gov by March 8, 2025.
ODOT emphasizes its commitment to accessibility and inclusion according to ADA standards. For language interpretation or reasonable accommodation requests due to disability, contact Thomas Stratton at 330-308-3992 or thomas.stratton@dot.ohio.gov.
Information from this article can be found here.
