Mount Vernon is advancing its road improvement projects on Mansfield Avenue and Fairgrounds Road, with ongoing work on culvert replacements, water lines, and stormwater facilities. Mayor Matt Starr recently provided an update on these developments.
"While we understand construction can cause temporary inconvenience, the benefits will be well worth it," Starr said in a news release. "We ask for everyone’s patience and cooperation by using alternate routes, following posted detours, slowing down and driving carefully on narrow roadways. We can get these projects done safely and on schedule, together."
According to the release, the Mansfield Avenue project aims to enhance road conditions, upgrade water and drainage systems, and bolster the long-term viability of this crucial transportation corridor. A future phase will introduce a shared-use path or bike trail to encourage alternative transportation and recreational activities. The current scope includes replacing waterlines and culverts near Town & Country Veterinary at 191 Mansfield Ave., with a 0.8-mile, 8-foot-wide shared-use bike trail planned south of Mansfield Avenue within an existing right of way. The waterline replacement and first culvert replacement were completed by April 11, with the shared-use path bid opening scheduled for April 24.
The second culvert replacement is expected to finish by May 23, weather permitting. Adverse weather has delayed some work initially planned for fall 2024, aligning it with the start of the Fairgrounds Road project. Columbia Gas has started replacing outdated gas mains and service lines; this work is not part of any Mount Vernon or Knox County project but must be completed before starting the shared-use path. Work on this path is set to begin by May 26 with completion targeted for October 15.
The Fairgrounds Road project is a collaborative effort with the Knox County Engineer and Board of Commissioners to improve traffic flow ahead of the Knox County Fair. It involves installing a water transmission main from the fairgrounds' east gate to Mansfield Avenue, reconstructing failed stormwater facilities next to the fairgrounds, resurfacing Fairgrounds Road, and stabilizing shoulders. Construction continues with a completion target of July 17.
Mansfield Avenue will remain closed to through traffic during construction while maintaining local access for residents and emergency services. Motorists are advised to use North Mulberry Street, North Sandusky Street, or Wooster Avenue as alternative routes; detour signs have been posted accordingly. Fairgrounds Road will stay open in both directions for Knox County Fair traffic though minor delays may occur. Motorists are encouraged to use Wooster Road and McKenzie Road when possible due to limited visibility and narrow lanes that may present hazardous conditions.
For further information, contact Mount Vernon's Engineering Department at 740-393-9528 or engineer@mountvernonohio.org.
