Design-Build Success on I-70: Coordinating Stakeholders and Meeting Tight Deadlines in Ohio

The I-70/SR 317 interchange project in Ohio demonstrates how design-build delivery streamlines complex improvements on a major corridor. With tight deadlines, significant utility coordination, and extensive traffic management needs, the design-build approach fostered collaboration, reduced risks, and kept the project on schedule. American Structurepoint’s project team used proactive construction inspection and utility tracking strategies to illustrate how design-build creates efficiency while delivering quality results on time and on budget.

Meeting the Challenge of Complex Corridor Improvements

The I-70/SR 317 project enhances one of Ohio’s busiest corridors by addressing congestion, safety, and multimodal needs. Improvements include reconstructing northbound I-71 to create continuous lanes, adding an eastbound I-70 lane, and realigning ramps to improve access to downtown Columbus. The multiphase project also incorporates bridge deck rehabilitation, drainage upgrades, and a new pedestrian sidewalk to improve safety and connectivity.

Tight deadlines and high visibility made efficient project delivery essential.

Why Design-Build Was the Right Choice

By selecting design-build, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) accelerated delivery while maintaining quality oversight. This method enabled design and construction teams to work in tandem, addressing challenges in real time and reducing the delays that often accompany complex corridor projects. The integrated approach gave stakeholders confidence that improvements could be delivered efficiently, with the flexibility to adapt as construction progressed.

Coordinating Multiple Stakeholders

The project required extensive coordination among ODOT, contractors, utility providers, and local jurisdictions. Managing utilities was particularly critical, as delays could have rippled through multiple project phases. American Structurepoint implemented a detailed utility tracking log that cross-referenced utility notes with final plans, allowing the team to identify and resolve potential conflicts early. This proactive approach streamlined collaboration and minimized risk.

Delivering Quality On Time and On Budget

Design-build delivery empowered the project team to maintain progress despite complex phasing and heavy traffic demands. Pavement marking modifications, ramp realignments, and new traffic signal design were coordinated seamlessly, improving intersection sight distance and reducing weaving along SR 317. Eliminating free-flow traffic at key points enhances driver safety, while the new sidewalk provides reliable pedestrian access.

The result is a safer, more efficient interchange delivered within schedule expectations and budget parameters—an outcome made possible by design-build’s integrated efficiencies.

Lessons for the Industry

The I-70/SR 317 project illustrates how design-build can accelerate delivery and enhance collaboration on high-visibility, multi-phase corridor projects. Key takeaways include:

• Use proactive tools like utility tracking logs to anticipate conflicts early.

• Leverage design-build flexibility to adapt quickly to traffic and phasing constraints.

• Integrate stakeholder coordination into every phase to maintain schedule and budget discipline.

About American Structurepoint

American Structurepoint’s 750 professionals across 11 disciplines deliver innovative solutions that help communities grow and thrive. From concept to completion, we anticipate challenges, maximize resources, and improve quality of life. With 18 design centers across Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas, we support clients nationwide. Contact us at 813.579.5841 or visit www.structurepoint.com.