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I-75 Contraflow Lane Closed Near Dayton Due to Winter Storm

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/01 .. lane-closed-near-dayton-due-to-winter-storm.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 6:56 GMT by Dayton Daily News
      Locales: Ohio, UNITED STATES

Dayton, Ohio - February 1st, 2026 - The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) announced today the immediate closure of the I-75 contraflow lane within the ongoing construction zone near Dayton, effective this weekend. This proactive decision is a direct response to the forecasted arrival of Winter Storm Fern, a system predicted to bring significant snowfall, icy conditions, and reduced visibility to the region.

The contraflow lane, implemented as a temporary measure to maintain two lanes of traffic in each direction despite the construction, presents a heightened safety risk during inclement weather. With Winter Storm Fern poised to impact the area, ODOT officials determined that maintaining the contraflow setup could exacerbate potential hazards. The lane's closure will streamline traffic patterns and allow snowplows and other maintenance vehicles to operate more effectively.

"Safety is our top priority, especially when dealing with potentially dangerous weather events," stated ODOT District 8 Director, Melinda Harmon, in a press conference earlier this morning. "The contraflow lane adds a layer of complexity to an already challenging construction zone. Closing it down allows us to focus on clearing snow and ice, and ensuring a safer passage for all motorists."

Winter Storm Fern is currently tracking eastward, and meteorologists predict substantial snowfall accumulations across southwestern Ohio, with Dayton potentially receiving between 6-10 inches of snow, alongside freezing rain and sleet. The combination of precipitation and sub-freezing temperatures is expected to create hazardous driving conditions, including slippery roads and limited visibility. The storm is anticipated to peak overnight Sunday into Monday morning, meaning the lane closure will likely remain in effect throughout the duration of the worst weather.

The I-75 construction project, a multi-phase undertaking aimed at improving the highway's infrastructure and addressing long-standing congestion issues, has been ongoing for several months. While the contraflow lane has successfully mitigated some traffic disruptions, it requires careful monitoring and swift adjustments in response to changing conditions. The current closure demonstrates ODOT's commitment to adapting to real-time challenges and prioritizing public safety.

Impact on Traffic & Alternate Routes

The lane closure is expected to significantly impact traffic flow on I-75 near Dayton, particularly during peak travel times. ODOT anticipates increased congestion and delays. Motorists are strongly encouraged to avoid travel in the affected area if possible. For those who must travel, ODOT advises allowing for significantly extra travel time and exercising extreme caution.

Several alternate routes are available, although they may experience increased traffic volume as drivers divert from I-75. These include:

• US-35: Running parallel to I-75, US-35 offers a viable alternative, but drivers should be aware of potential congestion, particularly around the interchanges with I-75 and other major roadways.
• State Route 40: Offers a longer detour, but may be useful for bypassing the worst of the construction zone and storm impacts.
• State Route 725: Another potential east-west route that may offer a workaround, however it is a smaller highway and capacity is limited.

ODOT is coordinating with local law enforcement to provide traffic control and assistance to motorists who may experience difficulties. Emergency services are also on standby to respond to any incidents that may occur.

Staying Informed: Resources for Travelers

ODOT is urging drivers to stay informed about the latest road conditions and travel advisories. Several resources are available:

• OHGO.com: ODOT's real-time traffic map ([ https://ohgo.com/ ]) provides up-to-the-minute information on road closures, incidents, and traffic congestion. The OHGO app is available for both iOS and Android devices.
• ODOT Social Media: Follow ODOT on social media platforms like Twitter (@OhioDOT) and Facebook (Ohio Department of Transportation) for the latest updates and announcements.
• 511 Traveler Information: Call 511 or visit 511ohio.org for road conditions and travel information.
• National Weather Service: Monitor the National Weather Service ([ https://www.weather.gov/ ]) for the latest forecasts and warnings regarding Winter Storm Fern.

As Winter Storm Fern approaches, ODOT's proactive closure of the I-75 contraflow lane serves as a crucial measure to prioritize safety and minimize risks for drivers. By heeding travel advisories and utilizing available resources, motorists can navigate the challenging conditions and arrive at their destinations safely.