Penn Township negotiating with turnpike commission in advance of bridge removal
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Penn Township commissioners will vote this week on drafting an agreement with the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission as the Harvison Road bridge will be demolished in preparation for a $30 million widening project of the toll road.
Township secretary, manager and director of finance Mary Perez said the commission determined it is “not economically feasible” to replace the bridge.
The turnpike commission will remove the bridge as part of a project to widen a 10-mile section of the turnpike between Irwin and Monroeville, from four to six lanes.
Perez said the commission reached out to the township about drafting an agreement so that Harvison Road can be adequately modified once the bridge is taken down.
“They’re trying to negotiate things we might need as a township to soften the blow,” Perez said.
According to Perez, board members spoke with several Harvison Road residents, none of whom were in favor of the demolition of the bridge.
Perez said the primary concern is the detour necessary after the structure is gone. Residents fear it could lead to an increase in traffic and a delay in the arrival of emergency assistance.
Commissioners will suggest moving a nearby fire hydrant, bringing Harvison Road up to proper specifications to account for increased traffic, as well as adding a cul de sac to the end of the road.
Commissioners will vote on drafting an agreement with the commission at 7 p.m. Wednesday in the municipal building, 2001 Municipal Court.
The turnpike project is set to begin in 2023 and will include reconstruction of the Irwin interchange. Old bridge abutments were removed last year in preparation for the work.
Visit patpconstruction.com/mp57to67 for more details.
The summer line painting project also is on the agenda,. If approved, work is expected on Pleasant Valley Road, Route 130, Harrison City-Export Road, Sandy Hill Road, Main Street and Watt Road.
Commissioners also have to fill a vacancy on the zoning hearing board.