 | Last week, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) released a Draft Conceptual Alternatives Study (CAS) as part of its ongoing U.S. 23/I-71 Connector Feasibility Study — an important milestone in a project the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce has long supported. For years, our business community has advocated for stronger, safer, and more efficient north-south connectivity between Northwest Ohio and Central Ohio. The release of the Draft CAS moves that vision one step closer to reality. |
What’s in the Draft Study?
The Draft Conceptual Alternatives Study narrows potential solutions to five alternatives for further consideration. Each alternative connects U.S. 23 and I-71 with a proposed connector on the north side of the Village of Ashley.
This phase of the process reflects significant technical analysis and stakeholder input. By narrowing the field to five viable concepts, ODOT is advancing toward identifying a preferred alternative that balances safety, cost, environmental impact, and long-term regional benefit.
An especially encouraging update: estimated construction costs have continued to decrease as the study has progressed. Lower projected costs strengthen the overall feasibility of the project and improve its long-term return on investment for Ohio taxpayers and regional communities.
Why This Matters to the Toledo Region
The U.S. 23 corridor is one of Northwest Ohio’s most critical transportation links. It connects our region to Columbus, to national freight networks, and to economic opportunities throughout the state.
For our members and regional employers, this corridor directly impacts:
The Chamber’s Ongoing Advocacy
The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce has consistently elevated the importance of this project in our advocacy efforts at the state level. Improving the U.S. 23 corridor has been a long-standing priority because we understand the direct link between infrastructure and economic opportunity.
We appreciate ODOT’s continued diligence and the measurable progress reflected in this Draft Conceptual Alternatives Study. We will remain actively engaged throughout the process to ensure that Northwest Ohio’s business community is represented.
How You Can Engage
ODOT is currently seeking public input on the Draft CAS. We encourage members and community stakeholders to:
👉 https://publicinput.com/23-71study
Looking Ahead
This is not the final step — but it is a meaningful one.
As the study advances toward identifying a preferred alternative and future funding strategies, the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce will continue to advocate for infrastructure solutions that:
Infrastructure drives opportunity. And this project represents a strategic investment in our region’s future.
For questions or to share your perspective with the Chamber’s advocacy team, please contact Brian Dicken, VP of Advocacy & Strategic Initiatives, at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce.
The Draft Conceptual Alternatives Study narrows potential solutions to five alternatives for further consideration. Each alternative connects U.S. 23 and I-71 with a proposed connector on the north side of the Village of Ashley.
This phase of the process reflects significant technical analysis and stakeholder input. By narrowing the field to five viable concepts, ODOT is advancing toward identifying a preferred alternative that balances safety, cost, environmental impact, and long-term regional benefit.
An especially encouraging update: estimated construction costs have continued to decrease as the study has progressed. Lower projected costs strengthen the overall feasibility of the project and improve its long-term return on investment for Ohio taxpayers and regional communities.
Why This Matters to the Toledo Region
The U.S. 23 corridor is one of Northwest Ohio’s most critical transportation links. It connects our region to Columbus, to national freight networks, and to economic opportunities throughout the state.
For our members and regional employers, this corridor directly impacts:
- Supply Chain & Freight Movement - Manufacturers, distributors, and logistics providers depend on reliable north-south access. Improved connectivity reduces delays, enhances predictability, and strengthens our competitive position in site selection conversations.
- Workforce Mobility - Many workers travel between regions for employment. A safer, more efficient corridor supports talent access and workforce flexibility — key pillars of our regional economic strategy.
- Site Readiness & Business Attraction - When companies evaluate Ohio communities for expansion or relocation, infrastructure matters. Strong highway connections improve site competitiveness and increase our ability to attract transformational investment.
- Long-Term Economic Growth - Transportation infrastructure is foundational to economic vitality. Strategic investment today positions Northwest Ohio for sustainable growth tomorrow.
The Chamber’s Ongoing Advocacy
The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce has consistently elevated the importance of this project in our advocacy efforts at the state level. Improving the U.S. 23 corridor has been a long-standing priority because we understand the direct link between infrastructure and economic opportunity.
We appreciate ODOT’s continued diligence and the measurable progress reflected in this Draft Conceptual Alternatives Study. We will remain actively engaged throughout the process to ensure that Northwest Ohio’s business community is represented.
How You Can Engage
ODOT is currently seeking public input on the Draft CAS. We encourage members and community stakeholders to:
- Review the study materials
- Understand the proposed alternatives
- Provide feedback during the public comment period
👉 https://publicinput.com/23-71study
Looking Ahead
This is not the final step — but it is a meaningful one.
As the study advances toward identifying a preferred alternative and future funding strategies, the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce will continue to advocate for infrastructure solutions that:
- Strengthen regional connectivity
- Support business growth
- Enhance safety
- Improve economic competitiveness across Northwest Ohio
Infrastructure drives opportunity. And this project represents a strategic investment in our region’s future.
For questions or to share your perspective with the Chamber’s advocacy team, please contact Brian Dicken, VP of Advocacy & Strategic Initiatives, at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce.
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