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Nearly $59.5 million will be awarded to support 17 bridge projects in 12 counties through the Local Major Bridge Program overseen by the Ohio Department of Transportation.
That funding is partially the result of an expanded definition of a “local major bridge” initiated by Governor Mike DeWine (R) in 2022, which more than quadrupled the number of bridges that qualify for Ohio DOT’s program. In this round, 11 newly eligible bridges are receiving funding.
“We expanded this program to make an impact on more communities,” the governor said in a statement. “With these funding awards, we’re helping local communities invest in the upkeep or replacement of bridges to ensure that those who cross them are safe.”
The projects included in this round of funding seek to conduct lift bridge updates, replace bridge decks, add new lighting and fencing, craft new bridge designs, resurface roads and sidewalks, plus make mechanical and electrical system repairs.
To qualify for the program, the bridge must be a moveable/lift bridge or a bridge having a deck area greater than 15,000 square feet. Ohio DOT will fund up to 80 percent of eligible costs for all phases of the bridge projects receiving awards via this program with a maximum project cap of $20 million.
“[This funding] allows us to further help our local government partners address critical bridge needs and enhance the overall safety and accessibility of their communities,” added Jack Marchbanks, Ohio DOT’s director.
In 2023, the Ohio DOT provided $28 million in funding through its Municipal Bridge Program to support local projects to repair, replace, or demolish two dozen smaller bridges statewide.