ODOT hosts open house for new projects

GIRARD, Ohio - The state wants the public's input on a plan to widen a stretch of I-80, replace bridges and add noise walls in Mahoning and Trumbull counties.

An Ohio Department of Transportation hosted an open house will be held on Thursday evening to discuss adding a new lane in each direction of I-80 from the I-680/Route 11 interchange, east to the Route 193 interchange.

The widening project cost is $88 million.

Noise walls are recommended along the following two noise sensitive areas: 1) north side of I 80 and east of US 422/State Street in Girard; and 2) north side of I 80 in the vicinity of Webb Road/Mulberry Run in Austintown Township.

The decision to construct the recommended noise walls will be based on community input.

Construction on all three projects is expected to begin in the summer of 2015.

All interested persons are invited to attend, participate and provide comments regarding the proposed project. Written comments may also be submitted by Friday, July 12, 2013 to: