Proposed I-71 Interchange and Sunbury Parkway

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is eager to reintroduce the public to this important proposed interchange improvement in Delaware County, Ohio.

In 2017 ODOT completed studies of the I-71 interchange with U.S. 36/SR 37. These studies evaluated roadway improvement options that would accomplish the following:

• Reduce congestion and improve the operation of U.S. 36/SR 37 through the interchange,
• Improve safety at the interchange by eliminating back-ups on I-71,
• Support future growth in Delaware County as intended by current land use and economic development plans, and
• Improve east-west connectivity across Delaware County for commuters and freight.

As a result of these studies and public outreach, ODOT proposed to construct a combined interchange to the south that would offer alternate access to existing U.S. 36/SR 37 and provide access to a new east-west roadway, Sunbury Parkway. At the time, the proposed section of Sunbury Parkway from Wilson Road to W. Cherry Street and the extension of Wilson Road (shaded area in the Study Area Map, below) were to be constructed using private funds.  The private development has not progressed as expected and private funding is no longer anticipated.  Recognizing the need for these improvements, ODOT intends to advance them using public funds, and therefore will re-evaluate studies and conduct additional public involvement. 

Currently, ODOT is working on a revised feasibility study with the participation of Delaware County, Berkshire Township, and the City of Sunbury. This study includes: evaluating alignments for the Sunbury Parkway and Wilson Road Extension Area; updating traffic analyses; and identifying ecological resources, historic resources, and the potential for noise impacts within the study area. ODOT will be reaching out to the public during key decision points, including a public meeting planned for Spring/Summer 2023.

Visit Proposed Interchange and Sunbury Parkway for more details