CHILLICOTHE – Effective immediately, State Route 104 has been completely shut down in both directions between Long Fork Road and SR 32 in Pike County, reinstating a closure that aims to address safety issues stemming from ongoing bridge replacement work.
Earlier this week, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) had reopened the work zone to southbound traffic, while northbound lanes remained closed. However, multiple incidents of drivers disregarding signage and driving against traffic flow prompted authorities to reimpose the full closure to prevent potential head-on collisions.
A statement from ODOT District 9 Deputy Director Mike Dombrowski underscored the decision, citing safety as paramount over convenience. “We will never compromise safety for convenience,” he emphasized, expressing regret that unsafe driving forced a reevaluation of traffic management strategies.
Due to the project’s proximity to SR 32, implementing a temporary traffic signal to regulate both directions simultaneously was deemed unfeasible. Concerns were raised that queued southbound traffic waiting for clearance could extend back to the busy intersection, heightening risks for motorists.
The bridge replacement initiative, spanning from SR 32 to Long Fork Road, commenced on February 26 and is slated for completion later this fall. Until alternative traffic management solutions are identified in collaboration with the contractor, the full closure will remain in effect.
Motorists are advised to follow detours directing traffic via SR 32 to US 23 and SR 348 during the closure period. ODOT assures ongoing efforts to explore additional measures to mitigate traffic disruption and ensure public safety throughout the project’s duration.
