COLUMBUS, Ohio — Central Ohioans will notice a big change living through downtown Columbus on Tuesday morning.
Starting at 9 a.m., Front Street from Broad Street to Hickory Street will be converted from one-way to two-way. Later in the week, Marconi Boulevard from Broad Street to Spring Street will also be converted into a two-way street.
Officials with the City of Columbus said improvements were made to the infrastructure, including new curbs, sidewalks and street lighting, signage and pavement markings and upgraded traffic and enhanced crosswalks for better visibility.
“When streets are one way, it allows for cars to drive faster, drive above the speed limit. Two-way conversion actually slows the cars down,” said Kelly Scocco, the public service director for the City of Columbus.
The city said two-way traffic will help reduce vehicle speed and create safer conditions for drivers and people crossing the street. Additionally, it would allow the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) to add a bus service and shelter on Front Street with service beginning in January.
Residents said it’s a long-awaited change.
City officials urge everyone to drive carefully as they adjust to the changes.
The speed limit downtown is 25 mph.