YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — In December, First News reported on a resurfacing project for much of Interstate 680 that would begin in 2026.
That project also includes closing a southbound ramp on Mahoning Avenue. It’s a closure local business owners and community members don’t agree with.
Business owners on Youngstown’s West Side are frustrated with the ODOT proposal that would close a 680 southbound ramp off Mahoning Avenue.
It’s near McKinley Avenue across the street from Joe Jenkins’ sign business. His company uses the ramp often.
“If you’ve got deliveries of product, you know, for the different businesses, it’s going to make it less accessible,” Jenkins, President of Jenkins Sign Co, said. “You’re going to have trucks and stuff like that. They’re trying to access us and they’re they’re going to head south, you know, towards Pittsburgh or anything in that direction. They’re going to have a very difficult time”
Youngstown’s 4th Ward Councilman Mike Ray sent out a letter to those in his ward earlier this month opposing the closure and asking for comments. He’s worried the closure will push more traffic into residential neighborhoods to access the highway, which Ray worries would increase accidents in an area where there are already many.
In 2023 and 2024, there were 12 accidents near the ramps at Oakwood and Belle Vista, and nine at Edwards and High Street where there’s another. Compared to just one near the ramp that would be closed.
“I understand there’s a safety concern, but there’s also a practical impact on the neighborhood,” Ray said. “And I really ask ODOT to take into consideration the implications of that has in the community and to these neighborhoods.”
Jenkins tells First News other members of the West Side Merchants Association feel the same.
“There is unanimous opposition, you know, to closing that ramp,” Jenkins said. “This would be a step back… not a step forward.”
These proposed changes aim to improve safety by reducing conflict points on Interstate 680 due to the close proximity of the State Route 193 entrance ramp.
ODOT Public Information Officer Ray Marsch
The public comment period is open through Monday, Jan. 27, which can be filled out here. You can submit questions and comments via email to Sean.Carpenter@dot.ohio.gov or call 330-786-2274. You can also submit comments on the project website.
A summary of comments received and responses will be posted to the project website.
Along with pavement replacement on I-680 and ramps, the project will permanently close the entrance ramp from Mahoning Avenue to I-680 southbound. It will also address bridge maintenance and removal of the Lanterman Road Bridge over I-680.
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