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Route 62 Overhaul Planned for Licking County Amid Intel Growth

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/0 .. lanned-for-licking-county-amid-intel-growth.html
  Published in House and Home on Monday, February 9th 2026 at 7:31 GMT by Columbus Dispatch
      Locales: Ohio, UNITED STATES

By Alex Johnson, Associated Press

Published February 9, 2026

Licking County, OH - The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) today detailed a significant infrastructure overhaul planned for U.S. Route 62 in Licking County, directly responding to the massive growth spurred by Intel's ongoing construction of its advanced semiconductor manufacturing campus. The project, years in the making, will dramatically reshape the crucial corridor to accommodate a projected surge in both commuter and commercial traffic.

Originally highlighted in a January 15th report by the Columbus Dispatch, the expansion plans have evolved from initial assessments to a concrete roadmap for construction anticipated to begin later this year. ODOT officials confirm they've secured full funding and are finalizing land acquisition to facilitate the ambitious project. The scope extends far beyond simple widening; it represents a fundamental redesign of the Route 62 stretch to anticipate and manage the long-term transportation demands generated by Intel's presence.

Intel's Licking County campus, currently under development, is poised to become a cornerstone of the nation's semiconductor production. The facility is slated to eventually house two state-of-the-art fabrication plants (fabs) and directly employ approximately 3,000 individuals. However, the economic ripple effect is projected to be far greater, creating thousands of indirect jobs in supporting industries and related sectors. This growth necessitates a proactive approach to infrastructure development, and the Route 62 project is central to that strategy.

The planned improvements encompass a complete modernization of the roadway. Key elements include a substantial widening of Route 62 to increase capacity, the addition of dedicated turning lanes at key intersections to improve traffic flow, and the construction of entirely new intersections to better distribute the growing volume of vehicles. Engineers are also incorporating advanced traffic management systems, including smart signals and real-time monitoring, to optimize traffic flow and minimize congestion. The project aims to not just handle current needs, but to anticipate future growth over the next 20-30 years.

"This isn't merely about accommodating Intel; it's about future-proofing Licking County's infrastructure and ensuring continued economic growth for the entire region," stated Steve Koogler, ODOT District 5 Resources Engineer. "We are building a system that can handle the projected increase in traffic, reduce commute times, and support the ongoing success of Intel and the many businesses that will be attracted to the area."

Land acquisition remains a critical component of the project. While ODOT has already secured approximately 34 acres, roughly 30 additional parcels are still needed to complete the project footprint, which totals around 100 acres. Negotiations with property owners are ongoing, and the state is committed to fair and equitable compensation. Officials are keenly aware of the potential impact on local businesses and residents and are prioritizing a collaborative approach.

To that end, ODOT will be hosting a series of public meetings to solicit feedback from the community. The initial meeting, scheduled for January 23rd at the Licking County Family and Community Education Center, was the first in a series of planned engagement opportunities. Subsequent meetings will delve deeper into specific aspects of the project and address concerns raised by residents and business owners. ODOT is actively seeking input to minimize disruption and ensure a smooth transition during the construction phase.

"We understand that a project of this magnitude will inevitably cause some inconvenience," Koogler added. "We are committed to transparency and open communication throughout the process. We want to work with the community to mitigate any negative impacts and maximize the benefits of this investment."

Beyond the immediate benefits to Intel and commuters, the Route 62 improvements are expected to unlock further economic development opportunities in Licking County and beyond. Improved transportation links will enhance the region's attractiveness to new businesses, facilitate the movement of goods and services, and create a more vibrant and connected community. The project serves as a powerful example of how strategic infrastructure investments can drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for all Ohioans.

For additional information about the Route 62 project, including detailed plans, timelines, and contact information, please visit the ODOT website at [ transport.ohio.gov ].