SYLVANIA TOWNSHIP, Ohio — A busy Sylvania Township intersection has to be closed for seven days to upgrade drainage and pavement, according to the Lucas County Engineer's Office.
However, the road resurfacing project has caused many drivers confusion about how to get to and from businesses at the intersection of Holland-Sylvania Road and Sylvania Avenue.
"It's a major thoroughfare," resident Leonard Marty said. "I have no idea how many automobiles and trucks go through here."
Marty said he probably drives in the intersection five times a day, sometimes more. But he can't get through this week.
"It took an extra 20 minutes for me to wind my way around and avoid anyone who was really grumpy on the road because I think there's a lot of upset people trying to get back and forth," he said.
Joshua Kessler delivers goods to nearby Papa Johns and said he's had to make quick friends with construction workers, getting them to move barricades.
"I've been driving for about five years and I've never experienced actually having to move barricades out of my way," Kessler said.
He said the construction delayed him by a couple of hours.
"Normally we would get back at 6 a.m. or 7 a.m. in the morning," Kessler said. "Now we're going to get back at 9 a.m. or 10 a.m."
Kessler isn't the only one who said he's affected.
While drivers can get into the businesses, workers said they've seen a decline in people coming in.
Lucas County Engineer Mike Pniewski said the work needs to be done, though.
"There's pretty significant rutting and early damage to the pavement," Pniewski said. "If you keep letting it go then it becomes worse and a far worse repair and even worse than what we have now."
He said. construction should only take a week to complete. Marty is hopeful the end result is worth it.
"It's a nightmare for the time being, but I'm sure when it's all done it'll be a lot easier and at least smoother for when the paving has been redone," Marty said.
For a map showing how to get into businesses in the intersection and possible detours, click here.