Motorists traveling along U.S. 1 in Bucks County should prepare for overnight disruptions on Monday night as the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) conducts crucial bridge repairs. From 21:00 on March 18 until 05:00 on March 19, lane closures will be in effect in both directions on U.S. 1 near the I-295 interchange. PennDOT’s efforts are part of a significant $37.4 million project aimed at enhancing safety and mobility on this heavily trafficked corridor.
The lane closures will lead to expected traffic backups and delays as construction crews remove barriers beneath Interstate 295 in Middletown Township. Drivers are advised to plan for extra travel time and to stay vigilant in the work zone. All activities are subject to weather conditions, which may impact the schedule.
Details of the Bridge Repair Project
The barrier removal is just one component of a larger initiative focused on repairing deteriorated structures on vital interstate routes. Among the planned work are repairs to structural steel and welded cracks, as well as enhancements to prestressed concrete beams, reinforced concrete bridge decks, and bridge railings.
Additional tasks will involve replacing expansion joints, sealing deck joints, and rehabilitating strip seal glands. The substructure work includes repairing or reconstructing bearing pedestals and fixed bearings, cleaning bridge seats, resetting expansion bearings, and clearing debris beneath the bridges.
Furthermore, the project will clean and repaint 11 overhead steel sign structures and upgrade existing roadway lighting to energy-efficient LED luminaires. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure the long-term functionality of the bridges and improve overall traffic conditions in the area.
General Contractor and Funding
IEW Construction Group, Inc., based in Hamilton, New Jersey, is serving as the general contractor for this extensive project. Importantly, the entire undertaking is funded by federal dollars, underscoring the commitment to maintaining infrastructure essential for regional connectivity.
With these overnight lane restrictions on a critical stretch of U.S. 1, motorists are strongly encouraged to plan their routes accordingly. For real-time traffic updates and lane closure information in Bucks County and surrounding areas, drivers can check the MyChesCo Traffic Center. This proactive approach can help alleviate potential delays and enhance travel experiences during the construction period.
