By Jennifer Edwards
The Cincinnati Enquirer

EAST END - Neighborhood residents cautioned state and city Cincinnati officials Monday that detoured motorists would flood onto Eastern Avenue next year while the Columbia Parkway bridge into downtown is replaced, putting schoolchildren and others at risk.

The $8.5 million project starts in spring and could disrupt traffic for two years.

"We are going to become a race track for sure," said resident Gerry Burns, 78. "With this, you are going to take your life and limb in your hands to cross the street."

The first phase will last nine months and shut down the Interstate 471 ramp to Columbia Parkway and the Martin Street exit to Mount Adams.

A second phase, at the end of 2004, will close the Martin Street exit back onto Columbia Parkway.

Ohio Department of Transportation officials explained the project late Monday at the East End Area Council meeting at LeBlond Recreation Center.

They also doled out detours and contact numbers for residents throughout construction.

ODOT and city and police officials promised they will do everything they can to keep traffic disruptions and violations to a minimum. About 25,000 vehicles use the road daily.

ODOT will hold a similar session tonight with the Mount Adams Civic Association at Holy Cross-Immaculata Church, 30 Guido St.

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E-mail jedwards@enquirer.com