Regional

Massive U.S. 322 Project Begins—Years of Disruptions Ahead

- by Alec Robson
Traffic alert, expect delays

UPPER CHICHESTER TWP, PA — Drivers along U.S. 322 (Conchester Highway) should prepare for long-term construction impacts as PennDOT begins a major bridge replacement and roadway improvement project on Monday, March 30.

At a Glance:

  • Roads Affected: U.S. 322 (Conchester Highway), Bethel Road Interchange
  • Dates: Beginning Monday, March 30; multi-year project (through approximately 2030)
  • Times: Ongoing construction with future off-peak restrictions
  • Reason: Bridge replacement, roadway widening, and interchange improvements

PennDOT officials said early work in 2026 will focus on relocating utilities, including water and sewer lines, fiber optics, and communication infrastructure. While no immediate traffic restrictions are planned during this initial phase, drivers should expect changing conditions in the work zone.

READ:  Lane Closure Could Snarl Baltimore Avenue Traffic in Lansdowne

U.S. 322 will remain open with at least one lane of traffic in each direction throughout construction. However, additional lane restrictions and detours are expected during later stages, particularly beginning in 2027 when bridge demolition and reconstruction impact the westbound side over the CSX rail line.

No specific detour routes have been announced at this time, but motorists are urged to stay alert for updates as traffic patterns evolve. Expect delays, especially during off-peak construction periods, and plan alternate routes when possible.

The $63.4 million project will replace the bridge over the CSX Railroad, widen approximately one mile of U.S. 322, improve vertical clearance over Bethel Road, and reconfigure the Bethel Road Interchange to better accommodate traffic, including large vehicles.

READ:  Lane Closure Could Snarl Baltimore Avenue Traffic in Lansdowne

This project is part of a broader effort to improve a 6.7-mile stretch of U.S. 322 across Concord, Bethel, and Upper Chichester townships.

Drivers traveling through Delaware County should plan ahead and allow extra time as this long-term project progresses.

For ongoing updates, detours, and real-time traffic conditions, visit the MyChesCo Traffic Center: https://www.mychesco.com/traffic/.

For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.