'Dangerous Roads' Prompt Ohio Governor To Declare Emergency

COLUMBUS, OH — More than 35 Ohio counties are in a state of emergency thanks to the condition of their roads, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine declared this week. The emergency proclamation allows state and local agencies access to federal funding.

"Many of these roads are in dangerous condition, impacting the safety of Ohio's drivers. By declaring a state of emergency, Ohio can now access federal funding to help with the unplanned costs to repair the highways damaged by heavy rain and flooding," said DeWine.

DeWine declared emergencies in 37 Ohio counties, nearly all rural. Many of the counties are in the southern reaches of the Buckeye State. The governor cited severe weather conditions, which started in February, as the catalyst for degradation along key roadways. Several key roads still have lane restrictions or are closed completely.

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The Ohio counties in a state of emergency are: Adams, Athens, Belmont, Brown, Butler, Carroll, Clermont, Clinton, Columbiana, Coshocton, Gallia, Greene, Guernsey, Hamilton, Harrison, Highland, Hocking, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Knox, Lawrence, Licking, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, Perry, Pike, Preble, Ross, Scioto, Tuscarawas, Vinton, Warren, and Washington.

DeWine's proclamation said residents of these counties have suffered and are at-risk because of the condition of their roads and bridges. The Ohio Department of Transportation has been authorized to take all necessary corrective actions to fix the roads.