PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has officially completed a significant project aimed at enhancing travel and safety along Henry Avenue, stretching from Barnes Street to Port Royal Avenue in Philadelphia. This initiative marks a substantial investment in the city’s infrastructure, aimed at easing congestion and safeguarding both motorists and pedestrians.
The project encompassed a comprehensive overhaul of traffic signals across several intersections. This included the installation of new mast arms, advanced controllers, and signal heads, alongside the optimization of signal timing for improved interconnectivity. Pedestrians will now benefit from countdown timers, a feature designed to enhance crosswalk safety significantly.
A notable addition is the traffic signal at the previously uncontrolled Barnes Street Intersection and a red-light warning signal near the Port Royal Intersection. These interventions are set to reduce accidents and facilitate smoother vehicle flow.
Further enhancements on Henry Avenue involved a series of structural and design updates. These ranged from median widening for better road division to guiderail replacement for increased safety. Roadway signage and pavement markings were also refreshed, contributing to clearer navigation for drivers.
PennDOT’s efforts extended to modifying parking and turning lanes to alleviate traffic bottlenecks. Among these changes were the extension of southbound restricted parking zones and the removal of certain right turn lanes to streamline vehicle movement. Additionally, the introduction of a raised concrete median at Valley Avenue now prevents risky left turns, and an elongated northbound left turn lane at Livezey Lane further eases traffic flow.
Pedestrian and cyclist mobility received a boost with the construction of a shared-use path along Henry Avenue’s east side, connecting Barnes Street to Walnut Lane. The project also introduced bump-outs at 15 intersections to slow traffic, alongside ADA-compliant curb ramps, enhancing accessibility for all road users.
To address the area’s high traffic volume — averaging 29,000 vehicles daily — PennDOT implemented several speed calming measures. These include distinctive pavement markings to reinforce the 35 mph speed limit, oversized speed limit signs coupled with electronic feedback signs, and hidden driveway warnings to alert drivers to potential hazards.
Additionally, the project tackled environmental concerns through improved stormwater management systems, including drainage enhancements and the installation of green infrastructure.
While the main construction phase is concluded, ongoing efforts will focus on traffic signal testing and the installation of additional CCTV cameras at key intersections, ensuring long-term safety and efficiency on Henry Avenue.
Road-Con, Inc., based in West Chester, Chester County, executed the $12.8 million project, funded entirely by federal resources.
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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