PennDOT to resume construction projects

By TAYLOR BROWN

tbrown@yourmvi.com

Some construction projects related to state roads and bridges previously put on hold throughout the state will resume.

On Tuesday, PennDOT announced more than 60 emergency and critical highway and bridge projects will resume this week. 

In response to guidance on how to curb the spread of COVID-19, PennDOT paused construction projects statewide on March 17 to minimize exposure.

Urgent emergency work has continued, and 61 projects will resume this week.

The projects will specifically address emergency work, Press Secretary Alexis Campbell said.

Such work addresses specific “safety need criteria,” such as landslide repairs, critical bridge, tunnel and drainage repairs or work needed to eliminate roadway restrictions that could impede the ability for the movement of life-sustaining goods and services.  

Safety procedures will be implemented to protect workers.

Cleanliness protocol will be implemented at job sites and offices, and social-distancing guidelines, procedures to address employee sickness and the safe handling of material deliveries will be enforced.

Conditions are continuously evaluated to determine the appropriate response.

“A safe and reliable transportation network is always of the utmost importance, but it becomes even more crucial in times of crisis,” Acting PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian said. “We need to ensure that work continues on these critical projects and we are taking the proper precautions to help ensure the safety of both our employees and our partners in the industry.”

Specific projects have not yet been released as PennDOT officials receive necessary paperwork from contractors. 

“Details are in progress,” Campbell said. “Types of work that is continuing includes repairs related to emergencies like landslides or flooding, drainage, eliminating roadway restrictions so goods and services can pass through. When more information is available on specific projects, we will certainly share that.”

Approvals could be finalized as early as today.