Monroe leaders have expressed opposition to extending Ohio 63 west, saying their city would incur the brunt and traffic to and from Interstate 75 and road maintenance costs. However, Monroe officials did agree at Tuesday night’s meeting to hear more information on the plan from Butler County and Trenton officials.
“We’re not interested in assessing people for that deal. I think we’ve heard them,” said Wilkens, who presented four alternative routes that range in price from $58 million to $64 million.
“Understand everything we’re talking about now is in a concept form. If all the money is in place today, the roads are under construction and everything took place, it would be about three years, ” Wilkens said, before it could be constructed. Also, Wilkens said traffic would increase in that corridor regardless because of growth.
Extending Ohio 63 to Seven Mile has been on the drawing board since 1979, when Miller Brewing Company announced it would build a brewery in Butler County.
Back then, state and county officials said they would create a Trenton bypass, which would begin on the east side of the city, loop south and connect with existing Ohio 73 west of Trenton. In later years, the project was billed as an Ohio 63 extension.
Following talks, Monroe officials said they were open to continued discussion.
John Jones, Trenton’s city manager, said he was pleased with Tuesday’s meeting and thinks there’s potential for both sides to work together.
“It’s encouraging that they’re asking for more information and that there’s a chance to continue to talk some more,” he said.
Mayor Rhonda Freeze said Wilkens’ presentation helped council members and the public better understand the project.
Wilkens said his goal was to educate council members about the project and address their concerns. “I think there was some education that took place and anytime education takes place, that’s always encouraging. I wasn’t expecting an answer today.”
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