PennDOT Announces Safety Improvements on Lehigh Avenue

Construction underway on Lehigh Avenue as part of road safety enhancements.

News Summary

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is set to begin a major safety improvement project on Lehigh Avenue aimed at enhancing road safety for Vulnerable Road Users (VRU). The $2.6 million initiative will include new pavement markings, speed cushions, and curb enhancements to protect pedestrians and cyclists. Construction is scheduled from May 12 to May 30, with potential lane closures during the work period. Motorists are advised to expect delays and follow detour signs. This project represents a commitment to improving urban travel safety.

Philadelphia – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced a significant safety improvement project on Lehigh Avenue, aimed at enhancing safety for Vulnerable Road Users (VRU) in the area. This project is part of a broader initiative worth $2.6 million, specifically designed to reduce serious injuries and fatalities along a major thoroughfare in the city.

The construction is scheduled to commence on Monday, May 12, and will continue through to Friday, May 30. Work will take place daily between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM, with potential lane closures extending into weekends. The targeted area spans both directions of Lehigh Avenue, between Aramingo Avenue and Fairhill Street.

To improve road safety, several key upgrades are planned, including new pavement markings, the installation of speed cushions, and enhancements to curbs. These measures are aimed at better protecting pedestrians and cyclists who share the road with motor vehicles.

Motorists traveling through the construction zone are warned to expect delays and are encouraged to allow for extra travel time during the work period. PennDOT requests that drivers adhere to posted detour signs to ensure both their safety and that of the construction crews.

The project is being managed by Kuharchik Construction, Inc., a company based in Exeter, Pennsylvania. All funding for the safety improvements is sourced from federal allocations, emphasizing the commitment to enhancing public safety and reducing risks for those who travel along Lehigh Avenue.

These upgrades come in response to the increasing need for improved safety measures on urban roads, particularly in areas frequented by pedestrians and cyclists. By implementing these changes, PennDOT aims to significantly reduce the number of accidents and improve overall road conditions.

It is important to note that all construction activities are contingent on weather conditions, and adjustments to the schedule may be made as necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness. Motorists and residents are encouraged to stay informed about the ongoing traffic conditions by visiting resources such as the MyChesCo Traffic Center for live updates.

This road safety improvement initiative represents a significant investment in Philadelphia’s infrastructure and addresses the vital need for safer travel conditions in urban areas. By prioritizing the safety of Vulnerable Road Users, PennDOT is taking proactive steps to create a more secure environment for all road users.