Bridge Construction To Impact South Hills Commuters
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - In the coming weeks, you will no doubt notice road construction popping up all over the area.
In the South Hills, PennDOT kicked off a major bridge project today that will have a big impact on thousands of drivers.
Traffic will be tied up as crews work to replace a bridge in Pleasant Hills.
It crosses over the railroad tracks on Curry Hollow Road between Route 51 and Brownsville Road next to Sheetz.
"I think it is going to impact traffic significantly. This is a major project to replace a much-needed bridge in that area," PennDOT Spokesperson Jim Struzzi said.
It's a $5.6 million project, that kicked off Wednesday.
Until March 23, westbound traffic will be single lane between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
On March 23, long-term restrictions begin.
Traffic will be reduced to one, 10-foot wide lane in each direction around the clock through November, when the construction season comes to a close.
"I think people should expect to encounter some delays, in particular once the long-term restrictions are put into place during the peak periods in the [morning] and in the evenings next week. Allow yourself plenty of extra time, possibly consider an alternate route," Struzzi said.
With between 14,000 and 20,000 vehicles traveling the stretch of Curry Hollow Road daily, this will be a headache for commuters.
However, PennDOT said the end result will be well worth the temporary hassle.
"That bridge will actually be widened to add some turning lanes in that area. So, not only is it a needed rehabilitation, replacement of that structure, but it's also going to improve traffic flow in that area," Struzzi said.
Remember, no matter how frustrated you get, be cautious around road crews, especially considering how narrow the road is.
"Slow down and be safe and please don't text while you're driving. Don't talk on the phone, pay attention in the work zones," Struzzi said.
The project is scheduled to wrap up in November of 2013.
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