Construction Updates

SETUP OF NEW TRAFFIC PATTERN WITH “EXPRESS LANE” CONTINUES ON NORTHBOUND I-476

Work to prepare 3.5 miles of Interstate 476 for reconstruction of the southbound lanes continues through late winter with crews establishing a new traffic pattern by placing and securing barrier, painting new lane markings and finishing crossovers at both ends of the project.

The northbound shoulders have been reinforced to carry traffic once three lanes of northbound traffic are shifted to the right and a single lane of southbound vehicles is shifted to the “express lane” that is being constructed on the northbound side. The new pattern will traverse a work zone that stretches from just south of the I-76 Interchange (Exit 16) to the Turnpike’s Mid-County Interchange (Exit 20).

The “express lane” that is currently in place at the Schuylkill River Bridge (Go here for an update on the bridge project.) is being extended in both directions. Barrier has been placed south of the bridge, extending the lane to a new crossover south of the Schuylkill Expressway overpass. Barrier placement on the northbound side is underway, moving north toward the crossover near the Ridge Pike Interchange (Exit 18).

Once the new northbound traffic pattern is in place and the “express lane” activated by mid-March, work will begin to set protective construction barrier down the middle of the southbound lanes. Reconstruction of the outside half of the interstate will follow barrier placement that is expected to progress from south to north.

Crews also continue to plug potential sinkholes in an operation that is occupying the southbound shoulder from the Ridge Pike on-ramp south.

A construction staging area also has been established in the infield area at the northbound Ridge Pike on-and off-ramps. Equipment and construction materials for upcoming construction are being stored at this location. On the opposite side of the interchange, fill material that may be used for the project is being stockpiled between the on-ramp and the mainline.

Motorists are reminded to slow to the posted 45 MPH speed limit and remain alert for shifting traffic patterns in the work zone.

 

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