6 things to know about Springboro’s construction

EDITOR'S NOTE: Today the Dayton Daily News begins a look at the reshaping of the gateway to Springboro. Additional coverage will continue through the weekend.

Work to transform Springboro’s central crossroads — Central Avenue and Main Street — will improve traffic and safety while reviving the corner’s role in the community, supporters say.

Road construction at the corner of Ohio 73 and Ohio 741 is to begin in the summer of 2017 and be complete early in 2018.

Here are six things to know about the intersection:

1. Cost in millions

The cost to fix up the intersection and redevelop the northwest corner is expected to top $15 million.

2. Deals not done

The Warren County Transportation Improvement District has tentative agreements with some property owners, but the district continues to negotiate with other owners of land needed to rework the crossroads.

3. One still remains

Only one business, the Springboro Flea Market, remains in the former Springboro IGA shopping plaza, once the center of shopping activity for the Springboro area.

4. Demo, then plan

The plaza’s demolition will clear the way for a consultant to begin developing a plan to redevelop the corner, returning it to a central role in the Springboro community.

5. The social center

The intersection of Central Avenue and Main Street was once home to gas stations on all four corners. It was also the social center of town, back when service stations were central meeting places, as well as where to fill your gas tank.

6. Historic area untouched

The project will leave 200-year-old Springboro’s historic district intact. South of the intersection on Main Street, the road will remain two lanes wide and flanked with old buildings, dating back to the city’s beginnings.

About the Author