Traffic Alert: Multiple ODOT Construction Projects Set to Impact Ashland, Richland, and Wayne Counties
ASHLAND COUNTY, Ohio — Motorists across Ashland, Richland, and Wayne counties should prepare for a series of upcoming and ongoing construction projects that are expected to impact traffic flow in the coming weeks. The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) advises that all work is weather permitting and encourages drivers to plan ahead.
Ashland County: Mohican State Park Bridge Closure
A popular route at Mohican State Park will soon be temporarily shut down.
The covered bridge over the Clear Fork Mohican River will close beginning Wednesday, April 1 for repair work. The closure is expected to last through April 30, 2026.
Detour Route:
- SR 97 west
- McCurdy Road north
- Goon Road / County Road 3006 east
- County Road 939 into the park
(Motorists will follow the reverse route exiting the area)
Richland County: Lane Closures and Long-Term Projects
Several major roadway improvements are underway throughout the county, particularly in the village of Lexington.
- U.S. 42 (East Main Street):
Daily lane closures between SR 546 and Castor Road for roadway, sidewalk, and signal upgrades. Traffic will be maintained with 12-foot lanes in both directions.
Completion: May 2026 - State Route 13 Resurfacing:
Long-term lane restrictions from Hanley Road to Chilton Avenue as part of a resurfacing project.
Completion: May 2027
Continuing Impact:
- SR 13 southbound between Cook Road and Straub Road reduced to one lane for culvert repairs.
Wayne County: Major Reconstruction and Closures
Drivers in Wayne County will see a mix of long-term construction and short-term closures affecting several key routes.
-
State Route 21 Rehabilitation:
A major reconstruction project stretching from the Stark County line to the Summit County line includes pavement replacement, bridge work, and intersection safety upgrades.
Completion: June 2026Current Traffic Changes:
- Clinton Road open in RCUT configuration
- Edwards Road intersection fully operational
- Grill Road intersection permanently closed
-
State Route 95 Closure:
SR 95 will close just west of Snoddy Road starting April 1 for culvert repairs.
Completion: April 30, 2026Detour Route:
- SR 95 → SR 179 south → SR 3 north → SR 95
-
State Route 226 Resurfacing:
Single-lane closures with flaggers from SR 3 to the Holmes County line.
Completion: August 2026New Impacts:
- Curb ramp removals and bridge repairs begin the week of March 30
- Traffic reduced to a single 10-foot lane
- State Route 302 Projects:
Multiple new impacts include:- Resurfacing between Old Lincoln Way and Camp Road (flagger-controlled traffic)
- Culvert replacement at Smithville Western Road (one lane, restricted access)
- Full closure north of SR 301 beginning April 6 with detour via SR 301, SR 604, and U.S. 42
Completion: April 10, 2026
Plan Ahead
ODOT is urging drivers to remain alert in construction zones, follow posted detours, and allow extra travel time.
With multiple overlapping projects across the region, commuters should expect delays and adjust routes accordingly as crews work to improve roadway safety and infrastructure throughout north central Ohio.
