Allegheny Mountain Realignment - Improvements

Yes. This will be investigated in preliminary engineering. The PA Turnpike implements various measures to prevent and manage rockslides and erosion, including stormwater management, vegetation management, and regular maintenance activities, as part of their Clean Water Initiative and extreme weather preparedness.  

Traffic flow will be improved through this area by realigning the roadway with curves that are easier to navigate. The project will provide additional lanes that are needed to accommodate current and future traffic volumes. Wide inside and outside shoulders will provide adequate room for disabled vehicles. 

The project includes climbing lanes for trucks and large vehicles which increases traffic flow by allowing others to use two lanes to pass the slower vehicle. Inteligent Traffic System (ITS) devices will be deployed to inform the traveling public. All of these features are proven to improve traffic flow.

Safety is a top priority. As part of preliminary engineering and final design the new alignment will be evaluated to ensure all applicable design standards are met. Features will be added to improve safety for highway workers, first responders, and the half a million drivers who travel the roadway every day. Potential weather-related impacts will be explored through preliminary engineering. The new alignment will meet current design standards. 

The PA Turnpike will continue to comply with state and federal environmental regulations and is working together with state and federal agencies as the project progresses. A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit will be required for the project and involves compliance with the many environmental and community resources studied in the environmental document. Coordination and compliance related to environmental and community resources will continue through preliminary design, final design, construction, and post-construction. Innovative solutions to protect the environment are being studied, such as wildlife crossings and habitat improvements for plants and animals. Mitigation options will be explored in collaboration with state and federal agencies for any resource that cannot be avoided.

Watersheds will be studied in more detail during preliminary engineering. The PA Turnpike will establish a water quality monitoring program that builds on past research and will monitor quality and flow to protect the local water supply and water resources. This monitoring program will include pre-construction, construction, and post-construction water sampling and reporting. All work will be approached in compliance with the Federal Clean Water Act and state regulations to protect the local water supply and water resources. This will include collaboration with local water authorities, such as Berlin Water, and property owners with wells and septic systems.