Why is this study needed?

Route 23 already has 30% more traffic than the roadway was designed to accommodate, leading to increased congestion, unpredictable travel times, bottlenecks, and higher crash rates. This study will support Columbus as a national logistics hub by strengthening connection and access to northwest Ohio, Michigan, and Canada.

What is the process?

Route 23 Connect previously considered possible free-flow connections between Waldo and I-270. The cost, complexity, and environmental impact of the concepts presented in earlier were too high to pursue further so the study is shifting its focus toward identifying smaller-scale improvements.

Route 23 Connect is now focusing on improvements along the U.S. 23 corridor between I-270 and Waldo. This study has developed concepts which are being evaluated to guide a corridor action plan that will identify specific projects that can be advanced into project development. The study concepts range in size and scope, aiming to provide safer and more efficient travel, including improved travel time reliability for through traffic. 

Click the "Public Involvement" tab for information about upcoming engagement opportunities. More details on the study are available on ODOT’s website at:

www.transportation.ohio.gov/23connect

A Fact Sheet of this project can be found in the Documents section of this website.

The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental law for these projects are being, or have been, carried out by ODOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated December 14, 2020, and executed by FHWA and ODOT.