January 7, 2026
By Rachel Scofield
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has shared an update on the long-planned improvements to the Pickerington/Reynoldsburg exits from Interstate 70, a project designed to ease congestion and improve safety in one of the area’s busiest travel zones.
Photo by Heath Scofield
According to Chas Cosgrave, public information officer for ODOT District 5, the project remains in the design and right-of-way acquisition phases. Plans include upgrades to the existing I-70/SR 256 interchange and construction of a new full interchange at Taylor Road. The work will realign ramps at SR 256, add a bridge over I-70 at Taylor Road, create a new ramp lane connecting SR 256 and Taylor Road, and widen Taylor Road with additional turn lanes at SR 204.
ODOT says the addition of a second full interchange is expected to reduce pressure on the current I-70 and SR 256 interchange by distributing traffic between two access points.
The project will also separate high-speed interstate traffic from vehicles that are entering and exiting by using a parallel road system, allowing for smoother merges. An additional westbound lane on I-70 through the project area is also planned, along with related capacity improvements nearby.
The earliest construction could begin is spring 2027, depending on funding approval. The project is currently under review by the Transportation Review Advisory Council (TRAC), with funding recommendations expected in January or February 2026.
Photo by Heath Scofield
Once underway, construction is expected to last five to six seasons and will be completed in four phases, each spanning one to two seasons. Final timelines will be set after funding decisions are made.
Right-of-way acquisition began in summer 2025 and is expected to take 15 to 18 months. Both right-of-way work and final design are anticipated to be completed by winter 2026.
Cosgrave said the project’s focus remains on long-term safety and reliability.
“By adding a second full interchange and shifting local traffic off the mainline, we’re reducing conflict points and easing congestion,” he said. “It’s about creating more predictable travel for families, commuters, and freight and preparing the corridor for the future.”
