SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA — Travelers along Interstate 476, a crucial artery connecting several communities from West Conshohocken Borough, Montgomery County, to Ridley Township, Delaware County, should brace for potential delays next week. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced a significant overnight construction project aimed at revitalizing nearly 17 miles of this vital interstate, including its ramps and bridges.
From Sunday, April 14, through Friday, April 19, motorists will encounter lane closures from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM the following morning on both northbound and southbound sections of I-476. The affected segments include the stretch between the Route 3 (Upper Darby/Broomall) and I-76 (Philadelphia/Valley Forge) interchanges for northbound traffic, and between the I-76 and I-95 interchanges for southbound traffic. These closures are necessary for milling, paving, and concrete patching operations, part of a broader $63.7 million effort to enhance the roadway’s safety and durability.
PennDOT urges drivers to plan for additional travel time when passing through these areas, as the expected lane reductions are likely to lead to backups and delays. The department also notes that the timing of these operations is weather-dependent, suggesting the possibility of schedule adjustments based on climatic conditions.
The scope of the project is extensive, encompassing milling and overlay work on I-476’s travel lanes and shoulders in both directions. Additionally, it includes repairs on 49 structures, improvements to 21 stormwater management basins to address rock slope stabilization issues, repairs on existing sound walls, replacement of inlets at select locations, and the installation of new pavement markings, delineators, rumble strips, signage, and guiderail.
This undertaking aims not only to extend the design life of the interstate but also to significantly improve ride quality and safety for thousands of daily commuters and travelers. Moreover, it seeks to ameliorate the current condition of roadside elements such as stormwater basins, drainage inlets, slope stabilization, guiderail, and signs, which are in poor condition.
As PennDOT embarks on this ambitious project, the immediate impact on nighttime commuters and long-haul truckers underscores the ongoing challenge of maintaining and upgrading infrastructure in a manner that minimizes disruption to the public. Motorists are encouraged to stay informed about the project’s progress and any potential changes to the work schedule.
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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