State funding approved for safety improvements at Walnut Creek intersection

State Representative Mark Hiner (R-Howard) announced Jan. 15 that Holmes County was awarded funding through the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Improvement Program.

“This funding to improve safety at the County Road 114 intersection is an important step toward preventing future tragedies,” said Hiner. “With multiple fatalities having occurred at this location, these improvements will help make our roads safer for everyone who travels through the area. I appreciate this investment in our community and will continue working to ensure safety improvements remain a priority at other dangerous intersections.”

In House Bill 54, Ohio’s Transportation Budget, the General Assembly appropriated $185 million each year for the continued success of the program.

Through this award, more than $5 million was provided to ODOT District 11 for the construction of a roundabout at the intersection of state Route 39 and County Road 114 in Walnut Creek.

Roadway safety improvements funded through this round of the grant program include roundabouts, turn lanes, intersection upgrades, enhanced signage and pavement markings, and high-visibility crosswalks, sidewalks and bike lanes.