Reconstruction of Colorado Ave and Henderson Dr - PID 118175

LOR-611 Colorado Reconstruction PID #118175

At the intersection of Henderson Drive and Colorado Avenue, a concrete island creates a barrier for pedestrians and poses a significant traffic safety concern. The northbound right-turn lane on Henderson Drive directs traffic into an active through-lane, resulting in dangerous rear-end and sideswipe crashes. Between 2019 and 2021, this intersection experienced 30 crashes, nine of which resulted in injuries, with thirteen specifically related to turning traffic. This traffic configuration encourages motorists to make higher-speed turns and focus on oncoming traffic to the left, neglecting to look for potential pedestrians attempting to cross to the concrete island. This problematic geometry benefits no one.

The intent of this project is to remove the concrete island and reconstruct the signal at the intersection of Henderson Drive and Colorado Avenue. The new intersection design will feature a dedicated right-turn lane, high-visibility traffic signals, and pedestrian improvements including new pedestrian signal heads, push buttons, crosswalks, and ADA-compliant curb ramps. The proposed changes can be seen below.

This safety improvement is expected to reduce rear-end collisions, decrease the distance for pedestrians in the crosswalk, and improve motorists' awareness of pedestrians. These changes align with the city's Vision Zero Policy—a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities.

Construction of these improvements is expected to start 5/27/2025. This project will enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility along the SR 611 corridor, taking a critical step in ensuring a safer roadway environment for pedestrians and motorists in the City of Lorain.

Any questions or concerns related to this project, please reach out to: Patrick Pijor - Phone # (440) 323-9608

Estimated Cost: $735,246.44 - 90% of which is funded by ODOT.