ODOT Celebrates New Westbound I-90 Innerbelt Bridge
Bridge officially dedicated “George V. Voinovich Bridge”
Cleveland (Friday, November 8, 2013) – Lieutenant Governor Mary Taylor and the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) today celebrated the near completion of the new $293 million westbound I-90 Innerbelt Bridge – the first of a pair to replace an aging 1950’s-era span.
The 4,347 foot long bridge was officially dedicated the “George V. Voinovich Bridge” after one of Ohio’s most distinguished public servants. Born and raised in Cleveland, Voinovich has held numerous public posts including U.S. Senator, Ohio Governor, and Cleveland Mayor.
“This project means a lot to the City of Cleveland and to Northeast Ohio,” Taylor said. “State and local partners came together to make the Innerbelt Bridge a reality and it is fitting we dedicate such an important part of Cleveland to Senator Voinovich who has dedicated so much of his life to the people of Northeast Ohio.”
Employing as many as 500 people, construction of the first new bridge alone is the largest project in ODOT history. The project earned national attention as one of the top 10 bridges in the nation and was featured on the cover of “Roads & Bridges” magazine. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has touted its sustainability efforts.
Replacing the aging structure is vital to the success of moving people in and out of downtown Cleveland now, and in the future. Replacement will enhance capacity, bolster Cleveland’s economy and ensure the safety of motorists.
The new westbound bridge is expected to open in its entirety by late November 2013. Demolition of the existing bridge and construction of the new eastbound span is expected to be complete during the fall of 2016.
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For more information contact:
ODOT Innerbelt Communications Office at (216) 584-4030 or email info@Innerbelt.org.
