IRONTON - Beginning Thursday, contractors will be removing loose rock from an embankment along westbound U.S. 52 near the State Route 141 exit in Lawrence County. This was discovered this week while crews were doing scheduled work in the area.

For the safety of the traveling public, motorists can expect intermittent daytime closures of the westbound lanes while crews are working. This allows crews to safely scale and remove any loose material from the slope high above the highway. Closures will occur between 8:30 AM and 2:30 PM on Thursday, Friday, and next Monday.

Motorists who wish to avoid potential delays may use the 12th Street Bridge into Ashland, KY, turn right onto U.S. 23, cross back into Ohio via the Oakley C. Collins Memorial Bridge into Ironton, and follow SR 93 north to U.S. 52.

In addition, the U.S. 52 exit ramp to SR 141 remains closed for scheduled repairs by ODOT Lawrence County maintenance crews. The ramp is expected to remain closed until October 8.

ODOT reminds motorists to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, remain alert for workers and equipment in the work zone, and check OHGO.com for updated travel information.