ON THE ROAD TO SUCCESS AS MAJOR PROJECTS ADVANCE

Having a modern, safe, and efficient transportation system is important for the movement of people and goods. Our roadway network keeps us connected and is critical infrastructure for business and industry. Several projects along key corridors of I-70 and SR 981 either started or were completed this past year. These significant investments in, and improvements to, our roadways contribute to the success of the county as we strive to attract and retain a workforce and sustain our economy.

PennDOT District 12 held a virtual plans display for the I-70 at SR 51 interchange improvement project located in Rostraver and South Huntingdon townships. The plans display featured the interchange design improvements, environmental studies regarding the project, and construction schedule. Individuals were also given the opportunity to provide feedback on the project. In November, PennDOT District 12 also released a video detailing the improvements to both I-70 and SR 51.

The I-70 at SR 51 project will involve the construction of a diverging diamond interchange (DDI) to replace the substandard cloverleaf interchange. The new DDI will move traffic more efficiently and reduce conflict points, reducing crashes. Traffic on SR 51 will cross (or diverge) to the opposite side of the road at the interchange and back again, allowing drivers to turn left directly onto the interchange ramps to access I-70 without crossing oncoming traffic. Curbed islands will guide traffic through the DDI intersections. Exiting and entering I-70 at the interchange will be safer with up-to-date deceleration and acceleration lanes. Additionally, 1.7 miles of I-70 will be improved to include wider medians and shoulders, and drainage and stormwater improvements. SR 51 improvements will include widening, replacement of a railroad bridge, an intersection relocation, and traffic signal improvements. Construction is scheduled for 2022-2025 and the project has an anticipated cost of $100 million-$135 million.

Another milestone project along the I-70 corridor is the completion of the I-70 at SR 31 interchange improvement project in South Huntingdon. The project consisted of the reconfiguration of the I-70 and SR 31 interchange into a diamond interchange. The new interchange provides longer acceleration and deceleration lanes for the on- and off-ramps to greatly improve the safety of the traveling public. Additionally, 3 miles of I-70 were reconstructed and widened to accommodate wider inside and outside shoulders and travel lanes. Two bridges were also replaced as part of the project. SR 31 was also significantly improved to include left-turn lanes and deceleration lanes for eastbound and westbound I-70 on-ramps. This project had a final cost of $67 million.

These two projects are part of the overall $750-million initiative to upgrade and modernize I-70 from Washington, PA to New Stanton. Ten projects lie in Westmoreland County – six of which have been completed, one is under construction, and three are in design. For more information on the I-70 improvements and investments being made in the county, visit https://www.i-70projects.com/.

Another major project advancing within Westmoreland is the SR 981, Section Q20 project of the Laurel Valley Transportation Improvement Project (LVTIP) from SR 819 to Norvelt. After decades of discussion, planning, and design work, state, county, and local officials ceremoniously broke ground on the project in November. It is due to the collaboration among many leaders and stakeholders that have made improvements along the SR 981 corridor a reality.

Physical construction of the Section Q20 project began in December. The $55-million project consists of upgrades to approximately 4.5 miles of the corridor including wider travel lanes, improved curves and grades for safety, three roundabouts to better facilitate traffic movement, increase safety, and provide opportunities for gateway treatments, and wide shoulders to accommodate bicycle and pedestrian traffic. These improvements are designed to fit within the surrounding community context and support current residents and businesses as well as future growth and development.

The SR 981, Section Q20 project is the first of three of the overall LVTIP, extending about 11.5 miles. The primary focus of the LVTIP is to improve safety, access, and mobility along the SR 981 corridor between SR 819 and the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport. In combination with other completed sections, the LVTIP represents over $150 million in investment and improvement to the community and region. Completion of Section Q20 is slated for late 2024.

Aiding the overall advancement of the LVTIP, Senate Majority Leader Kim Ward (R-39) secured $30 million towards the 3.5-mile Section V20 project. According to Ward, “Accelerating the completion of this project is paramount to the future economic growth of eastern Westmoreland County.” “Tourism, commercial business expansion, and greater air freight opportunities are among the areas that stand to benefit greatly from this project.”

For more information on the LVTIP including project areas, improvements, and schedules, visit https://www.laurelvalleyproject.com/.