Warren County Commissioners Weigh Road Closure Near 371-Home Development in Hamilton Township

LEBANON, OH --Warren County Commissioners are considering whether to restrict access to a section of Mounts Road near the Salt Run Preserve subdivision in Hamilton Township rather than spend an additional $1.4 million to improve the roadway.

Warren County Engineer Kurt Weber presented the options during this week's commissioners meeting, explaining that the existing road is narrow, has sharp curves and presents potential safety concerns as development continues in the area.

Salt Run Preserve, a planned 371-lot residential development near Zoar Road and Mounts Road, currently has a handful of homes built, but the development is expected to significantly increase traffic in the area.

Weber recommended leaving the existing roadway in place for now and eventually installing a gate to prevent through traffic once another planned road connection is completed.

A major concern involves a park within the subdivision. 

Weber explained that improving the existing road to a standard two-lane roadway could encourage higher driving speeds near an area where children and families would cross the road to reach recreational facilities.

The proposed road improvements would cost approximately $1.4 million. Without those improvements, the overall road project is estimated at $4.2 million, compared with $5.6 million if that section is upgraded.

Commissioners questioned whether closing the road would simply redirect traffic through neighboring residential streets, particularly for residents of existing developments who currently use Mounts Road.

Emergency access was another concern. 

Commissioners discussed whether a gate could be designed to allow fire trucks and other emergency vehicles to use the roadway when necessary.

Weber said Hamilton Township trustees and fire officials had previously expressed support for the concept, although commissioners requested additional discussions with emergency services before making a decision.

The development's history also complicates the issue.

Commissioners explained that a court agreement dating back approximately 25 years limits the financial contributions that can be required from the developer for infrastructure improvements. As a result, Warren County could be responsible for substantial road improvement costs associated with the development.

Commissioners also discussed whether neighboring developers, including those involved with a proposed residential development in Maineville, might be willing to contribute toward keeping the road open and improving it.

Because it was emphasized that affected residents should have an opportunity to express their concerns before any final decision is made, the board agreed to arrange a work session involving residents, developers and other interested parties, including emergency services representatives.

For now, Mounts Road will remain open. Any decision to restrict access would come after additional discussions and the completion of the planned alternate road connection.

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