Progress Continues on Improving Connectivity Between Northwest and Central Ohio

​The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce is encouraged by the report that was released October 1st by the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) on the potential highway connection between US23 and Interstate 71.

​A key takeaway in the report finds that a US23 to I-71 connector along or near the Delaware/Marion/Morrow County line would offer the greatest benefit, while reducing the potential impacts and cost. As options continue to be refined, several show that more than a hour round trip could be saved with a more direct connection based on estimates.

“We applaud the work that has been done by ODOT and the team of consultants to identify a potential solution to our connectivity problem between Northwest and Central Ohio” said Brian Dicken, the Chamber’s vice president for advocacy and strategic initiatives. He continued by saying “a significant amount work has been completed over the past couple of months to arrive at this interim report."
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The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce remains focused on finding a solution to improve the predictability, efficiency and safety of the highway connection between our regions and beyond. As we continue to see growth across Ohio it is important that both of our regional economies have the highway connection they need to be successful.

With the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge in the coming months, we can expect to see an increase commercial traffic flowing through Northwest Ohio to Central Ohio. It is imperative that planning continues to mitigate even more future problems.

The Chamber also extends our appreciation to our region’s state legislators. They have been instrumental in the effort to make this happen. With their support, language was included in both Ohio’s transportation and operating budget that requires a solution to be found and a plan to be implemented to better connect our regions.

While much work remains to be done, we look forward to receiving the final report a year from today. The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce will continue work with our legislators to lead on this important regional and statewide transportation priority.

More about this story can be found at:  

Route from NW Ohio to Columbus may get easier with proposed bypass
WTVG - October 2, 2025

Report outlines proposed connector between US 23 and I-71 that would expedite travel between Toledo and Columbus
WTOL - October 1, 2025

Business leaders encouraged with plans for improved Toledo-Columbus route
The Blade - October 1, 2025