The State Route 37 Corridor Improvements Project is a multi-phased project to make improvements to the SR 37 corridor between US 23 and US 36 including the intersection of US 42 (Lake Street) and SR 37 (East Central Avenue). The City has secured funding commitments for Phase 1 and is pursuing funding for Phase 2 with the goal of advancing a combined project.
Phase 1: SR 37 Preservation Project
The first phase will make improvements to the SR 37 (E. Central Ave.) corridor between Potter Street and East Street (ending at the east end at the Point Improvement Project). The project will reconstruct the full depth and width of the existing pavement, provide a center left turn lane, improved the Central & Channing intersection, and provide enhanced pedestrian features.
- Current Status: Under Design (public involvement and environmental review are complete)
- Schedule:
- Complete Engineering Design: 2026
- Right of Way Acquisition: 2027
- Construction: 2028
- Funding:
- MORPC MPO Funds: $2,540,554
- Expected State & County Grants: $650,000
- City of Delaware: $6,161,446
- Total Project: $9,352,000
Phase 2: US 42 & SR 37 Intersection Improvements
The second phase will make improvements to the intersection of US 42 (Lake Street) and SR 37 (E. Central Ave.), additional portions of US 42 north and south of the SR 37 intersection, and the SR 37 corridor between US 23 and US 42. Improvements will include a realigned intersection at Central & Lake with additional through traffic lanes to increase capacity and safety.
Phase 2 was included in the City's adopted 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) as an "unfunded project". While the project remains unfunded, the City is pursuing all funding opportunities. The current total Phase 2 project estimate is $13,200,000.
Project Resources
The following web pages provide information about the project and provide a clear demonstration of the project need and importance for local, regional, and statewide transportation.
