PHILADELPHIA, PA — Philadelphia drivers, brace for impact. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced the continuation of a major construction project on Henry Avenue, promising significant improvements to travel and safety but also warning of potential delays.
Starting Thursday, February 15, right through mid-March, motorists should prepare for a 24/7 right lane closure on southbound Henry Avenue between School House Lane and Coulter Street. Additionally, Warden Drive will be closed at the Henry Avenue Intersection, necessitating detours via School House Lane, Vaux Street, and Coulter Street.
The $12.6 million project, funded entirely by federal money and overseen by A.P. Construction, Inc., is set to transform a 1.6-mile stretch of Henry Avenue within the East Falls and Wissahickon communities.
The ambitious project includes an array of enhancements designed to improve mobility for pedestrians and cyclists, address speeding, and upgrade traffic signals at several key intersections. From Abbotsford Avenue to the Jefferson University driveway, new and upgraded traffic signals promise to streamline movement and enhance safety.
But that’s not all. Expect to see new signage, redesigned roadways with clear pavement markings, wider medians, and guiderail replacements. To promote safer turns, a southbound left turn lane will be added at the Midvale Avenue intersection, and the traffic island at Warden Drive will be enlarged.
For those on foot or two wheels, the project includes the construction of a shared-use bicycle and pedestrian path along the east side of Henry Avenue from School House Lane to Walnut Lane. Several intersections will see the addition of bump-outs, sidewalks, and ADA ramps to further boost pedestrian safety and accessibility.
To tackle the speeding issue, PennDOT plans to install median deflection, high friction surface treatment, 35 mph pavement markings, and hidden driveway signs. Orange placards attached to speed limit signs will serve as a visual reminder for drivers to slow down.
This comprehensive project also addresses stormwater management with plans for storm drainage, water facility relocation, and green stormwater infrastructure.
While construction is underway, PennDOT aims to maintain traffic flow by using long-term lane shifts and short-term single-lane closures. However, motorists are advised to allow extra time when traveling through or near the work area as backups and delays are expected.
Drivers can check current road conditions by visiting the MyChesCo Traffic Center. Stay updated on the latest news and information from MyChesCo with our free newsletter. Follow MyChesCo on Twitter at twitter.com/MyChesCo and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/MyChesCo.
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