Details Released on I-70/SR 149 Project

Intersection of SR 149 and I-70 south of Morristown. (ODOT Photo)

In news previously shared with Barnesville Area News readers, the Ohio Department of Transportation announced this week that the agency is moving forward with plans to improve the Interchange of I-70 and SR 149 south of Morristown. Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and take place over two years. The project will include widening State Route 149 and replacing the current bridges on I-70.

The project is expected to cost $30,000,000.

The preliminary plan includes adding a westbound exit ramp left-turn lane on I-70, as well as northbound and southbound left-turn lanes under the I-70 bridges on State Route 149. A southbound through lane and a continuous northbound right-turn lane under the I-70 bridges are also part of the design. The project will replace the I-70 bridges over State Route 149 to accommodate additional lanes. 

Other changes involve relocating Reco Drive to align with the Pilot Travel Center’s automobile entrance and installing a new traffic signal at the relocated Reco Drive. Additional turn lanes and through lanes on State Route 149 will be added between the I-70 eastbound exit ramp and Reco Drive. The Pilot Travel Center truck entrance will also be relocated to align with the planned Love’s Travel Stop truck entrance, and a new traffic signal will be installed at that location.

Enhancements on State Route 149 include the addition of pass through lanes and left- and right-turn lanes between Reco Drive and the travel centers’ truck entrances. The improvements aim to enhance traffic flow and safety at one of the county’s busiest interchanges. As plans progress, ODOT will share further updates and information with the public.