ODOT inspectors determine repairs needed after Saturday crash

Closures expected for several days while additional detailed inspections and repairs are completed

AKRON – Closures from a fiery tanker crash the morning of Saturday, January 27 will impact traffic at the State Route 8 and I-271 interchange in Macedonia for several days. Ohio Department of Transportation crews have been working with contractors to inspect the roadways and bridges affected by the crash and fire. Additional inspections will be needed this week as crews continue to assess the situation.

“Safety will always be our top priority. We know that keeping these closures in place is a major inconvenience to thousands of motorists, but we will never trade convenience for safety,” said ODOT District 4 Deputy Director Gery Noirot. “Our team will be working hand in hand with contractors to make emergency repairs and reopen the closed roadways and bridges as soon as we deem it safe to do so.”

ODOT inspectors have found that the roadway on the south end of the SR 8 bridge over Brandywine Creek will need repairs. A contractor will be milling off the top layer of the bridge surface and replacing it. This work is expected to be completed by the end of the week, weather permitting.

An initial inspection of the ramp from I-271 southbound to SR 8 did not reveal any immediate concerns. However, additional detailed inspections will done to confirm that there is no significant structural damage. The ramp is also being used by crews cleaning up soil at the site. That work is expected to last through most of the week.

An initial inspection of the flyover ramp that carries northbound SR 8 to northbound I-271 did not find any significant structural damage. Again, additional detailed inspections will be completed before the ramp is allowed to reopen.

“We hope to have all inspections completed and a full plan of action in place by early this week,” said Noirot. “One of the challenges will be the weather.”

Temperatures are forecast to be in the mid-30s to mid-40s this week.

Drivers looking to head south on SR 8 can detour via SR 82 to I-480 to SR 91 to SR 303 back to SR 8. Motorists trying to access I-271 northbound from SR 8 northbound can do so via SR 82.

“Motorists should plan ahead and give themselves plenty of extra time during their commute in the upcoming week,” Noirot added. “Please continue to check OHGO daily to find the easiest way around these closures.”

Motorists should check OHGO.com and follow @ODOT_Akron on X, formerly Twitter, for updated travel information.

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