Groundbreaking: I-90 Central Interchange Project, Bridge Replacements, and 2026 Traffic Impacts

Rendering of the new East 22nd Street bridge over I-90 which includes a multi-use path, widened sidewalks, planters and local art. (ODOT) CLEVELAND – The I-90 Central Interchange Project officially entered its construction phase today as officials from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), the City of Cleveland, and Cuyahoga County broke ground on the $328 million infrastructure overhaul. This massive undertaking is designed to replace deteriorating pavement and bridge structures dating back to the 1960s, ensuring a safer and more efficient corridor for the thousands of motorists who traverse downtown Cleveland daily. Modernizing the I-90 Central Interchange Project Infrastructure The scope of the I-90 Central Interchange Project includes the total replacement of pavement on Interstate 90 between East 9th Street and Carnegie Avenue. Beyond the roadway itself, several aging bridge structures will be completely rebuilt to meet modern safety standards. Key bridge replacements include the I-90 West ramp to I-77 South, I-90 over West 14th Street, and the East 22nd Street and Carnegie Avenue bridges over the interstate. "This milestone is the result of strong collaboration among ODOT, city, and county partners, ensuring the infrastructure upgrades are not only functional but also visually appealing," said John Picuri, P.E., P.S., ODOT District 12 Deputy Director. Multimodal Connectivity and Aesthetic Enhancements A major highlight of the I-90 Central Interchange Project is the redesign of the East 22nd Street bridge. This structure will serve as more than just a vehicular crossing; it is being transformed into a multimodal link between the Campus District and downtown communities. Plans for the new bridge feature a dedicated multi-use path, widened sidewalks for pedestrians, integrated planters, and local art installations. These aesthetic improvements are intended to reflect the unique character of the surrounding neighborhoods. Rendering of enhanced aesthetic improvements on I-90 looking north towards East 22nd Street that shows the I-77 north ramp entering on the right. (ODOT) Upcoming 2026 Construction Schedule and Road Closures As work begins in 2026, motorists should prepare for significant traffic shifts and long-term closures throughout the downtown area. Initial efforts will focus on pavement work across I-90, I-77, and several local streets including Carnegie and Central Avenues. The 2026 phase specifically includes: I-77 Northbound Exits: The ramps to East 14th Street and East 22nd Street will close for five months. East 22nd Street: The stretch between Carnegie and Central Avenue will be closed for one full year. Cedar Avenue: Closure between East 28th and East 22nd Street for one year. Bridge Demolition: Periodic full weekend closures of I-90 will be required to safely remove the Cedar Avenue and Community College Avenue bridges. Economic Impact and Long-Term Project Goals The $328 million investment aims to reduce long-term maintenance costs and decrease traffic congestion in the Northeast Ohio region. This project is part of the larger Cleveland Innerbelt Modernization Plan, which has already seen the completion of the new George V. Voinovich Bridges. Motorists are encouraged to monitor real-time updates via the OHGO app or ODOT's dedicated traffic website as the project progresses toward its expected completion date.