Clearing, Site Preparation Underway at Turnpike Bridge Construction Site

Early stage construction is underway this late-winter on the $101.56 million contract to replace the bridges carrying the Pennsylvania Turnpike's Northeast Extension (I-476) over the Lehigh River and Pohopoco Creek in Carbon County.

The bridges, which are located approximately two miles north of the Turnpike's Lehigh Tunnel (mile markers 73 to 75), are being replaced with new structures that are being built immediately west (upstream) of the existing spans. The new bridges will be tied-in to the Turnpike at the back end of the project.

Extensive clearing operations are continuing at the job site to provide access for surveyors, workers and equipment on both banks of the Lehigh River and the Pohopoco Creek.

Crews also are placing extensive environmental controls that are designed to prevent damaging runoff into the affected waterways and protect the area's aquatic life. All of the clearing and environmental measures are being closely monitored to ensure adherence to plans and standards.

Construction of a temporary causeway for the Pohopoco Creek structure has been completed ahead of restrictions for in-stream activity that go into effect March 1. The causeways will be used as staging grounds for construction of the numerous piers --and their foundations  -- that will support the new bridges' superstructures. Additional causeways necessary for construction in the Lehigh River will be constructed at the end of fishing season beginning June 15.

Construction activities are expected to ramp-up as weather improves heading into spring.

Traffic Impacts

• Daytime lane closures between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. may occur on the Turnpike in March. Night shift operations and related lane closures also may begin in March to install temporary construction barrier on the Turnpike.
• A permanent shoulder closure also will be installed on Route 248 beneath the bridge.
• Daytime lane closures also may be in effect on Route 248.

Motorists are advised to remain alert for construction vehicles on surface roads in the vicinity of the bridges.

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