PennDOT: I-76 Ramp Project Could Slow Traffic For Months

KING OF PRUSSIA, PA —PennDOT announced that a construction project began this week that could slow traffic on the Schuylkill Expressway (Interstate 76) near the popular King of Pressure shopping area until the fall.

According to a release, the westbound I-76 collector/distributor ramp to U.S. 202 and U.S. 422 in Upper Merion, Montgomery County, has been reduced to one lane -the right lane only - in order to perform sinkhole repair. The left lane is expected be closed 24/7 for two months.

Once completed, the left lane will reopen and work will begin on the right lane, which will take an additional two months. The entire project is expected to be completed by early October.

PennDOT said that during the long-term lane closures on the westbound I-76 collector/distributor ramp, access to all interchanges will remain open to traffic.

"However, drivers are advised to use alternate routes or allow extra time when traveling through the work area because significant backups and delays will occur," the agency noted.

According to Philly Voice, a sinkhole along the distributor road opened up in April, causing major traffic in the area. The road has been repaved, but PennDOT said additional work is necessary to ensure the highway remains stable long term.

The 14-mile stretch of I-76 between Philadelphia and King of Prussia serves more than 130,000 vehicles a day, according to Philly Voice.