Drivers using Interstate 476 in Delaware County, PA, will encounter daytime lane closures next week as the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) implements a significant upgrade to its traffic management systems. This work is part of a comprehensive $10.4 million project aimed at enhancing safety and reducing congestion along this busy corridor.
Details of the Lane Closures
Starting from January 5 through January 8, 2024, lane closures will occur on northbound I-476 between the Media/Swarthmore Interchange at Exit 3 and the Plush Mill Road overpass in Nether Providence and Springfield townships. Daily work will take place between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM, during which significant delays and backups are expected. PennDOT has advised motorists to allow extra travel time to accommodate these disruptions.
The fiber repair work is a crucial component of PennDOT’s broader Intelligent Transportation System initiative. This system will feature new conduits, queue detectors, variable speed limit signage, dynamic message boards, and other supporting technologies. Once activated, the system will be managed from PennDOT’s new Regional Transportation Management Center.
Enhanced Traffic Management Features
The introduction of Variable Speed Limit systems will enable posted speed limits to adjust in real time based on traffic flow, roadway conditions, and weather. This technology aims to provide drivers with timely warnings and facilitate smoother traffic movement during peak congestion periods. Additionally, Queue Warning systems will display electronic alerts to inform drivers of slowdowns ahead, which is expected to reduce instances of sudden braking and rear-end collisions.
PennDOT confirmed that these new systems will integrate with existing traffic management technologies already in place along I-476 in both counties, enhancing overall traffic efficiency and safety.
The project is being executed by Kuharchik Construction Inc. of Exeter, and it is important to note that the entire funding for this initiative comes from federal sources.
As lane restrictions will affect a heavily traveled section of the Blue Route, motorists are strongly encouraged to plan their journeys accordingly. For the most current traffic conditions, lane closure updates, and delay alerts in Delaware County and the surrounding areas, travelers should consult the MyChesCo Traffic Center before heading out.
For ongoing updates and news regarding developments in Chester County and the nearby regions, following MyChesCo on Google News and MSN is recommended.
