Tribune Staff

Sometimes, what is most convenient is not always what is best. Nothing could be more true than following

the Ohio Department of Transportation's latest traffic advisories.

ODOT is asking motorists to avoid traveling State Route 93 until the route is reopened. On Thursday, State Route 93 was closed from the 13-mile marker in Lawrence County to Oak Hill in Jackson County due to downed utility lines and trees. Although local traffic for residents is being maintained, no other motorists are allowed to travel the route, and they may be subject to citations by local law enforcement officers.

The road closure is solely for safety purposes -- that of the motorist and that of the crews working to clear the debris and power lines from the road. While it may mean a little extra travel time now, it could pay off in the long run as workers will be able to perform their duties more quickly if they do not have to be constantly watching their backs for passing vehicles.

ODOT crews and contractors for the department are working to clear the route of the debris, but, the route remains impassable and conditions for travel are hazardous. In addition to the downed lines and trees, the route is also covered with ice and snow as crews have not been able to navigate snow plows.

The detour routes for State Route 93 is State Route 32, U.S. Route 23 and U.S. Route 52.

Along with State Route 93, several other road closures across the district remain in effect, including State Route 373 to the 3.4-mile marker in Lawrence County.

Motorists certainly do not want workers to do a haphazard job just for the sake of opening the road sooner. We do not need more problems in the weeks to come.

ODOT has

not yet determined when the route will reopen, but until it does, please, avoid traveling on the road. Keep in mind you are not only putting yourself in harm's way, but you are also jeopardizing the safety of others.