Transportation staff outlines MLK corridor projects and ODOT assistance as council agrees to advance funding items

Department of Transportation staff presented an update on several MLK-corridor projects and related matching and planning requests during the March 18 agenda review, asking council to advance three related ordinances and to accept additional ODOT assistance on a Safe Routes to School award.

Staff said the city previously received $396,006.94 for the 2025 Safe Routes to School program and requested an additional $89,271 from the Ohio Department of Transportation to supplement that effort. On the MLK corridor, staff described a multi-phase effort that has included aesthetic work, drainage, a bascule span replacement and other pieces. Because bids for certain components returned higher than budgeted, staff said ODOT agreed to provide additional funding to cover increased costs.

Staff gave council a summary of anticipated grant/match amounts the administration is pursuing: $950,000 from FEMA for one embankment project (already received), an expected $800,000 for Miami Street, potential ODOT funding of $2,000,000 for the Coolman project, and a Central project estimated at $1,700,000. Staff said the final aesthetics phase of the MLK work is expected to be the last major improvement until the next detailed mechanical/electrical inspection in approximately four years. The anticipated opening of the bascule span access and some Riverwalk access was described as occurring in 2026 by Metroparks; staff estimated parts of the MLK work could be completed by September if equipment deliveries occur.

Council considered how to proceed. Chair recommended first reads on funding requests and SEP where presenters requested it. Council requested a timeline and further details for the various projects and staff said they would provide more granular schedules from partner agencies (including Metroparks).