BELMONT COUNTY, OH — Work continues on the rehabilitation of the historic Blaine Hill Bridge as the Ohio Department of Transportation moves forward with a major project designed to preserve one of Belmont County’s most recognizable landmarks while improving its long-term safety and structural integrity.
According to ODOT, the Blaine Hill Arches of Memory Rehabilitation Project will rebuild the historic U.S. Route 40 bridge near Blaine. The project includes replacing the bridge’s superstructure while maintaining its historic appearance and character, allowing the structure to continue serving travelers for generations to come.
The project was awarded to Beaver Excavating Company of Canton, Ohio, on April 24, 2025. The contract was awarded for $17,016,026, coming in nearly $1.8 million below ODOT’s original estimate.
Construction is currently underway, and the bridge remains closed to traffic in both directions during the rehabilitation process. According to information posted through ODOT’s OHGO traffic management system, detours remain in place as crews work to complete the extensive improvements.
Officials say the bridge is scheduled to reopen to traffic by July 1, 2026, with final project completion expected by October 31, 2026.
The Blaine Hill Bridge, often referred to as the “Arches of Memory,” is considered one of the most historic transportation structures in eastern Ohio. The rehabilitation project aims to preserve the bridge’s historic significance while modernizing key structural components to meet current safety standards.
ODOT officials say they will continue providing updates throughout construction as milestones are reached and work progresses toward reopening the bridge next summer.
Motorists traveling through the area should continue following posted detour routes and expect traffic pattern changes until the project is completed.
River News will continue to provide updates on the Blaine Hill Bridge Rehabilitation Project as additional information becomes available.
