Data center construction raises intersection concerns in Plain Township
Residents of Plain Township are concerned about traffic congestion and safety near U.S. 62 and E. Walnut Street as data center-related construction continues. Ohio transportation officials and New Albany are studying traffic improvements, but major roadway projects and potential intersection changes are still years away.
Construction associated with incoming data centers, including Intel's project, has contributed to traffic concerns near U.S. 62 and E. Walnut Street in Plain Township, near New Albany. Resident Ester Bravard said congestion has caused close calls, aggressive driving and school bus delays, although the Franklin County Sheriff's Office said it has not observed an increase in crashes.
The Ohio Department of Transportation rejected a four-way stop as an interim measure and is conducting a corridor study between New Albany and Johnstown. New Albany has assigned a traffic engineer to analyze the area and says more than $200 million is planned for current and future transportation needs, while roadway construction is expected to continue and the Intel project is expected to last through 2031.