What's Happening in Medina, OH…

The Medina County Planning Commission is considering whether or not to put median strips on State Route 18.

According to a June 2 article, and the idea of widening the road was proposed by the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), but is still in the early planning states. If approved, work will not begin until 2016.

Despite the long lead time, townships along Route 18 have asked ODOT how construction will be implemented, and who will be responsible for their maintenance. ODOT presented the initial plans for the improvements in 2014 at a public meeting. The plans revealed that the agency intended to widen Route 18 between Medina's city limits and I-71, add two turn lanes at Foote Road. The department also proposed a 10-foot-wide path that could be used for multiple purposes, between River Styx Road and Foote Road. The path would give pedestrians easy access to parks along the route.

According to Medina County Department of Planning Services director, Robert Henwood, ODOT is will to build the medians and fill them with dirt, but the townships along the route would be responsible for their maintenance. Thus far, Medina has opposed the idea but Montville Township favors it. Since Route 18 divides the two communities, ODOT cannot move forward until the disagreement is resolved. Henwood believes that discussion of the matter is imperative, and a solution fair to everyone can be found.

ODOT officials might work with brochure printers on a small brochure to mail to residents, explaining the proposals.