Columbus Authorized Rocky Ford Signal Upgrades
The city has solicited bids to replace aging traffic hardware at a key intersection to improve driver safety.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Emergency Response
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Columbus officials have issued a formal notice to bidders for Project 26-07, an initiative to modernize traffic management hardware at the intersection of Rocky Ford Road and Central Avenue. The upgrade aims to replace outdated components and install protected left-turn phases at the site.
Why it matters
The intersection has been identified as a priority location for vehicle accidents. City officials expect the transition to modern signaling equipment will decrease collision rates by finally accommodating dedicated turn signals.
The city is seeking contractors for Project 26-07 to modernize signal heads and left-turn capacity. The board also processed five quotes for separate airport sidewalk improvements ranging from $184,094 to $426,450.
The players
Board of Public Works and Safety
This body oversees municipal infrastructure projects and evaluates contractor bids for city-wide construction and safety initiatives.
Case Construction
This company submitted the lowest bid of $184,094 for the airport sidewalk connection improvements project.
Milestone Contractors
This construction firm provided the highest quote of $426,450 for the planned airport sidewalk sidewalk improvements.
The details
The project will replace aging infrastructure that currently lacks the capacity for protected left-turn movements, which contributed to its status as a high-crash area. In addition to the signal project, the Board of Public Works and Safety approved a $17,405 change order for an emergency vehicle preemption system.
Timeline
October 2, 2026: Project authorization report published.
Seasonal Patterns
The project follows the standardized safety requirements for implementing protected left-turn phases at high-risk urban intersections under the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). This upgrade aligns with routine municipal efforts to modernize infrastructure to current federal safety standards.
Residents should anticipate future construction work at the intersection of Rocky Ford Road and Central Avenue once a contractor is selected. The improved signaling will eventually allow for safer left-hand turns and reduced wait times for commuters passing through the area.
The takeaway
Upgrading intersection hardware remains a primary method for cities to mitigate traffic risks in high-accident zones. Local commuters can expect improved signal reliability and better traffic flow once the city finishes the procurement and installation process.
Further reading
For more information on infrastructure improvements, visit the Emergency Response section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mojo 1029.
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