State Representative Riordan McClain (R-Upper Sandusky) has issued a statement in response to the Ohio Department of Transportation’s (ODOT) proposed Route 23 Improvement Program Plan. The plan aims to address transportation issues along Route 23, which serves as a key corridor for many residents traveling north of Columbus.
McClain emphasized the importance of Route 23 for Ohioans and acknowledged that development in areas north of Columbus and Delaware has affected traffic on this route. He stated, “Route 23 is an extremely important transportation route for many Ohioans. Through the years, the growth and development north of Columbus and now even north of Delaware have disrupted this route.”
While expressing support for ODOT’s ongoing efforts to improve the existing path through what he referred to as “Route 23 cleanup,” McClain raised concerns about new proposals that would create corridors linking Route 23 with I-71 via Morrow or Marion Counties. He said, “I have long supported ODOT’s Route 23 cleanup efforts to restore the existing path, but I have significant concerns with new proposals for corridors connecting Route 23 to I-71 through either Morrow or Marion Counties. These proposals seek to put the solution to the Delaware transportation problems on rural residents in adjacent counties.”
McClain reiterated his backing for improvements within Delaware County but cautioned against solutions that could negatively affect those living in neighboring rural communities. “I will continue to support the Route 23 cleanup for Delaware County and recognize the benefits for all who travel through; however, I think there should be a solution that provides relief for drivers along Route 23 without impacting those who reside in Morrow and Marion Counties,” he concluded.
