The Appalachian Development Highway Program provides funds for construction, reconstruction or improvement of 3,025 miles of highway in 13 states known as the Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS). Ohio has 201.5 highway miles eligible for funding along an east-west corridor encompassing all or parts of US 50, SR 32, SR 124 and SR 346 from the West Virginia state line near Belpre to the eastern edge of Cincinnati and a north-south corridor encompassing US 23, US 35, US 52, SR 253 and SR 823 from the southern edge of Columbus to the Kentucky state line near Portsmouth. Approximately 88% of Ohio’s corridors are complete or under construction.

ADHS funds are provided to the Appalachian Regional Council (ARC), but are transferred to and administered by FHWA. Funds are apportioned among the 13 states according to the latest estimate of the cost to complete the system, which is updated every 5 years. ODOT expects to receive approximately $22 million annually through 2010.

Per federal regulations, ODOT sets aside $1 million of ADHS funds annually to fund Local Access Road improvements within Ohio’s designated Appalachian region. To be eligible, a local access road must create jobs by improving access to industrial and commercial areas, residential developments, recreational areas and educational centers. Eligible project activities are limited to initial project development and construction.

Federal participation is typically 80 percent but may cover up to 100 percent for demonstration projects and special appropriations.  Questions concerning the Appalachian Development Highway Program should be directed to Jerry Workman at (614) 387-5417 or jworkman@dot.state.oh.us.
 

• 2007 ADHS Cost Estimate Report
   
• ARC Home Page
   
• Ohio Counties in Appalachia