Reviews Mixed on Proposed U.S. 23/I-71 Connector Highway

ODOT's plans for a new connector route face opposition from some residents concerned about environmental and property impacts.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:19pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Ohio Department of Transportation has proposed five potential routes for a new connector highway between U.S. Route 23 and Interstate 71, but the plans have received mixed reviews from area residents. Some in northwestern Ohio support the connector to improve travel to Columbus, while those in north central Ohio oppose it due to concerns about impacts on wildlife, personal property, and local farms.

Why it matters

The proposed connector highway is a major infrastructure project that could significantly impact transportation and development in the region. The mixed reactions highlight the need to balance economic and transportation needs with environmental and community concerns.

The details

ODOT identified the five potential routes in late February and held an open house to gather feedback from residents. During the open house, area residents expressed concerns that the new highway could negatively affect wildlife, personal property, and local farms. Support for the connector is divided along geographic lines, with many in northwestern Ohio wanting the connector to better connect their region to Columbus, while many in north central Ohio oppose it.

  • ODOT identified the five potential routes in late February 2026.
  • ODOT held an open house to gather resident feedback last week.

The players

Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT)

The state transportation agency responsible for proposing and planning the new connector highway between U.S. 23 and I-71.

Nathan Hart

A transportation reporter for The Dispatch who covered the open house and the mixed reactions to ODOT's connector highway plans.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must balance economic and transportation needs with environmental and community concerns.”

— Maria De Vito, Editor (The Dispatch)

What’s next

ODOT will continue to gather feedback from residents and evaluate the proposed routes in the coming months before making a final decision on the connector highway.

The takeaway

The proposed U.S. 23/I-71 connector highway highlights the challenges of infrastructure planning, as ODOT must navigate the competing interests of economic development, transportation needs, and environmental/community impacts to find the best solution for the region.