TOLEDO, Ohio — The Detroit Avenue overpass in Toledo has officially reopened after nearly 13 miles of I-75 were closed over the weekend due to damage caused by a tow truck strike. The incident, which occurred on March 21, prompted swift action by the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), and crews worked diligently to reopen the critical roadway by March 23.
The overpass was struck by an elevated tow truck, damaging the structure and forcing the closure of a significant portion of I-75. In response, crews immediately began work to assess the damage and make necessary repairs. Despite the extensive closure, the highway was reopened by the evening of March 23.
However, the overpass itself will remain altered for the time being. In order to restore safe passage, ODOT crews had to shave off a portion of the south lane of the bridge. As a result, the overpass now accommodates five lanes instead of the previous six. Eastbound traffic will be funneled into two lanes, with the right lane serving both as a driving lane and a turn lane for those heading onto I-75 North.
The final repairs were completed on March 24, with the installation of a concrete barrier wall and the necessary fencing to support the guardrail. According to Keslie Hoagland, public information officer for ODOT District 2, these efforts allowed the overpass to reopen in a temporary but safe condition.
While the cost of the repairs remains undetermined, a similar project involving repairs to the Lime City overpass on I-75, which occurred just over two years ago, cost approximately $300,000. For now, the expenses will be covered by ODOT’s state budget.
Looking ahead, ODOT plans to collaborate with the City of Toledo for future repairs, though Hoagland noted that full construction could take years to complete. In the meantime, the department has reassured the public that the bridge is safe to use.
“We have many bridge engineers who are focused on making sure structures are secure all year round, not just when something happens,” Hoagland said. “In addition to that, we have a lot of contractors out here who have assisted us with extra sets of eyes to what we have on staff. We have checked the structure thoroughly, and we do want to reassure the public that it is safe to travel under and above the bridge as it has reopened.”
ODOT will continue to monitor the overpass, ensuring that the structure remains secure and that repairs are completed as needed.