JACKSONTOWN – Due to a high number of crashes, including a deadly crash earlier this month, the Ohio Department of Transportation is making changes to the intersection of US 33 and Allen Road in Fairfield County.
Beginning Monday, ODOT crews will remove access through the center median and restrict traffic to right-turns only at the intersections. The changes will affect drivers heading eastbound on US 33 and wanting to turn left onto Allen Road or those driving south on Allen Road looking to head east on US 33.
“Safety is at the forefront of everything we do. We believe this change will improve safety at this intersection ahead of a larger interchange project nearby at US 33 and Pickerington Road,” said ODOT District 5 Deputy Director Jason Sturgeon.
Since 2017, there have been 59 crashes at or near the intersection with more than 32 percent resulting in injuries.
“Failure to yield and following too close are the leading factors in crashes at this intersection. This move will help reduce the risk of future crashes, but drivers still need to be alert and watch their speed,” said Ohio State Highway Patrol Lt. Michael Akers, commander of the Lancaster Post.
ODOT has been working with local government agencies and school districts to come up with this solution.
“Safety is a top priority. I support ODOT’s decision to make changes to the intersection and improve safety for the traveling public,” said Fairfield County Engineer Jeremiah Upp.
A traffic count from 2021 showed an average of 1,900 vehicles use Allen Road, a 50 percent increase since 2015.
Left-turn movements at the U.S. 33/Allen Road intersection will be restricted beginning Monday, June 12. Weather permitting, work to remove the center median and backfill with dirt and seed is expected to be completed by Friday, June 16.
