By David Hofmeister
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Question: The state recently finished upgrading Interstate 275 between Interstate 71 and U.S. 42 in Blue Ash and Sharonville, adding more lanes and repaving. However, there are problems with the westbound lanes. The left lane is narrow, the middle lane is very wide (almost wide enough for two cars), and the two right lanes are the correct width. What gives? With the middle lane being extra wide, I believe that could confuse some drivers and cause an accident if they don't know what lane they are in.

Daniel Glassmeyer, Sharonville

Answer: Even though the project to improve 20 miles of I-275 wrapped up last fall, the contractor has not finished work on this stretch of I-275, according to Ron Mosby, spokesman for the Ohio Department of Transportation. The final course of blacktop, striping and cleanup should be finished by June or July.

Mosby said the remaining work will be done at night, to minimize traffic disruption.

Question: Recently, the city worked on the intersection of Harrison and Westwood avenues. The quality of the work done there (especially heading toward the viaduct) is disappointing. The city has left it worse than it was before. The asphalt was laid down poorly and unevenly. And worst of all, the numerous manhole covers are elevated and very rough. Are there any plans to fix it or hold the workers accountable?

Robert Carswell, Western Hills

Answer: Project manager Dave Krusling said a special type of asphalt needs to be used in this intersection because of the heavy volume of traffic. The weather turned cold last year before this course could be placed. The manholes are raised to accommodate the additional asphalt. After the surface course is placed in, permanent striping will be added.

Question: The widening of Cox Road between Hamilton-Mason and Tylersville roads is finished, but the road has no posted speed limit. What is the speed limit?

Heath Price, Mason

Answer: You can drive 55 mph in this stretch, said West Chester Township Police Chief John Bruce. This is in keeping with state law, which says roads outside of city limits are 55 mph zones by default, unless posted otherwise.

The road was posted at 40 mph for a short time as construction was winding down, but those signs were removed.