PREBLE COUNTY — On Sept. 8, Indiana will begin work on a bridge replacement on I-70 westbound approximately 3 miles west of the Ohio State line.

The construction will take westbound I-70 to one lane from Sept. 8 to possibly Sept. 22. Traffic congestion will back up into Preble County, on I-70 west potentially 10 miles with reduced speeds and long delays probable.

A detour has been established that directs traffic north on US 127 to west US 36 to south US 27 back to I-70. US 35 and US 40 west from Ohio are not viable options and will not avoid the construction traffic.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol, Indiana State Police, Preble County Sheriff’s Department, Wayne County Sheriff’s Department and Richmond Police Department all stress the need for patience and safe driving during this project.

If you have an alternate route available it may be best to avoid the area. Officials ask drivers to allow for extra time if you are traveling on I-70 west from Ohio to Indiana.

All agencies remind drivers to plan ahead, follow the vehicle in front of you at a safe distance and wear your seatbelt.