CHILLICOTHE — As part of the Ohio Department of Transportation – District 9’s Planning & Engineering Department, the district’s Environmental Office is seeking public input on the following bridge replacement project in Lawrence County.

It is proposed to replace the structure over Long Creek on State Route 141 in Mason Township. The bridge, which is located just west of State Route 775 at Wilgus, is a single-span, precast non-composite box beam superstructure on capped pike abutments, and the new structure will be a precast composite spread box beam superstructure. The project also includes approximately 100 feet of stream realignment to prevent embankment erosion.

The project will require approximately 0.633 acres of permanent right of way; however, no homes or businesses will be removed as a result of the project. In addition, no trees that have habitat for the federally endangered Indiana bat and federally threatened Northern long-eared bat will be removed for the project.

The project is expected to be awarded in the spring of 2017, and a road closure may be necessary in order to complete construction. Additional information regarding the proposed project, including a complete description, maps and plans sheets, is available online at www.dot.state.oh.us/districts/D09/Pages/Public-Involvement-Process.aspx.

Issues the public may wish to comment on include the effect on local residents, air quality, the local economy, and historic or cultural resources. Written comments should be submitted by Feb. 4, or the deadline date that is posted on the web site, to: Greg Manson, ODOT District 9 Environmental Supervisor, P.O. Box 467; 650 Eastern Ave., Chillicothe, OH 45601, e-mail: greg.manson@dot.state.oh.us