QUESTION: Why are overpass expansion joints on Interstate 75 north and southbound north of Interstate 275 in Butler County in such bad shape? - Bruce Erney, Symmes Township

ANSWER: Stefan C. Spinosa, structural planning engineer for the Ohio Department of Transportation, said his agency has been performing frequent maintenance to keep the joints safe. A complete expansion joint replacement is the only long-term cure. That's scheduled to begin in the spring.

Q: Are there any plans to resurface Mears Avenue in Mount Washington, particularly the lower end where construction trucks have done a lot of damage? - Jaye Yorio, Mount Washington

A: Richard Cline of the Cincinnati Department of Transportation and Engineering said this section of Mears is scheduled for 2003 rehabilitation. All potholes have been filled.

Q: About 18 months ago, the residents of Orchard Street in Over-the-Rhine were approached by the city about additional street lighting as well as trees along the street. Orchard Street residents unanimously signed an agreement approving a property tax increase. Where is the new lighting? - Anthony J. Gulden, Over-the-Rhine

A: Cincinnati Traffic Engineer Steve Bailey said there was a delay as Cinergy and the city discussed the best way for power to be directed to the new gas-style street lamps. Construction is expected to begin next year.

Fax 755-4150. E-mail wschaefer@enquirer.com. Mail to The Cincinnati Enquirer, 7700 Service Center Drive, West Chester, OH, 45069. Include name, neighborhood and phone.