PennDOT Announces ‘Innovations Challenge’ for High School Students The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced today that high school students from around the state are invited to participate in the eighth annual PennDOT Innovations Challenge, which encourages students to use their problem-solving, creative and strategic-thinking abilities to solve real-world transportation challenges in a competition among their peers. The Innovations Challenge is open to all students in grades 9-12, regardless of their school’s learning model. On average, more than 350 unrestrained fatalities occur on Pennsylvania’s roadways annually. PennDOT is committed to continuously improving roadway safety and deploys a multi-faceted strategy, which involves promoting behavioral programs and implementing infrastructure improvements. Nevertheless, the number of unrestrained fatalities remains high and changing driver and passenger behavior is crucial to solving this issue. For this year’s challenge, students are asked to develop a cost-effective, innovative solution that can help PennDOT more effectively increase awareness of seat belt safety and change behavior to improve roadway safety. “Safety is the focus of everything we do at PennDOT, and seat belt safety is vital to reducing fatalities and moving toward zero deaths on our roadways,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Hearing fresh perspectives from our youngest drivers on how to encourage seat belt usage and change behavior is a welcome prospect. I am excited to see what concepts the students develop.” Regional Innovations Challenge winners will be selected and invited to present their solutions to the PennDOT Secretary and a panel of judges, who will determine the statewide winner. For this year’s challenge, four different organizations are providing a combined total award of $6,000 to the statewide winning team. These organizations include: the Transportation Policy and Education Foundation, an educational arm of the Associated Pennsylvania Constructors (APC) organization; the American Council of Engineering Companies of PA (ACEC/PA); the Mid-Atlantic Section of the Institute of Transportation Engineers (MASITE) and the Intelligent Transportation Society of Pennsylvania (ITSPA) are providing a combined For complete Innovations Challenge details, visit www.penndot.pa.gov/innovation and click on the blue Innovations Challenge tile on the right side of the page. The submission deadline is Jan. 31, 2025.
PennDOT Invites Pennsylvanians to Share Feedback on Construction, Maintenance Services The statewide survey is available until October 22. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is accepting construction and maintenance services feedback through an online survey. The public can take the survey through October 22 by visiting 2024 PennDOT Construction/Maintenance Customer Satisfaction Survey. Construction and maintenance work has been underway across the state this year. From January through August, 303 bridges were put out for bid to be repaired, replaced, or preserved by PennDOT or industry forces. Additionally, from January through August more than 3,100 roadway miles were improved by department or partner crews. This includes 1,114 miles of paving. “PennDOT is working hard for Pennsylvanians every day, and work on our roads and bridges is one of our largest services in our communities,” PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said. “This survey is one way the public can help us find successes, potential improvements, or educational opportunities.” The 24-question survey asks respondents how they receive PennDOT roadway information and how often PennDOT meets or exceeds expectations in construction and maintenance activities. Respondents are also asked about experiences with reporting concerns to the department, and whether or how they use the state’s 511PA traveler information services. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.
PennDOT Invites Public Comment on Electric Vehicle Charging Support Community EV framework supports Administration’s goal to make EVs more accessible to Pennsylvanians As the Shapiro Administration continues its rapid deployment of federal electric vehicle (EV) charging investments, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today invited the public to submit feedback on the agency’s proposal to invest in EV charging infrastructure in communities statewide. The survey can be found on the PennDOT website and will remain open until October 11 at 11:59 PM. Recently, PennDOT submitted the 2024 NEVI State Plan Update to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) which outlines progress on the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program and how the agency proposes to begin the program’s “community charging” phase which will bring federal investments to communities across Pennsylvania. The department has requested that FHWA certify it has met requirements for Pennsylvania’s 1,800 miles of Alternate Fuel Corridors (AFC) and can begin investing the state’s remaining $102 million in NEVI funding to develop community charging infrastructure. “The next step in making EVs a reliable option for PA drivers is local access to charging,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Since these chargers will be in communities, it’s vital that we hear what folks around the state think is important.” PennDOT has prepared a “Post-AFC Framework” that invests a majority of the remaining NEVI funding in community focused charging needs across the Commonwealth. As part of framework, PennDOT proposes focusing funding on Corridor Connections, Community Charging, Critical Investments, and EV Charging Workforce. To date, PennDOT has announced $59 million for charging projects that are currently completed, underway or conditionally awarded. Pennsylvania can compete for billions of dollars in federal funds across a wide range of federal grant programs through the BIL, also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). To help communities and organizations learn about these opportunities, PennDOT created a web page, www.penndot.pa.gov/IIJA, with details on federal grant opportunities to help municipalities, townships, and other community agencies with understanding the multiple transportation program grants that are available. The page includes Grant Alerts, guides, and links to important resources for local municipalities and organizations interested in pursuing federal funding opportunities. For more information on NEVI funds in Pennsylvania visit the PennDOT website. Information about state infrastructure in Pennsylvania, including completed work and significant projects, is available at www.penndot.pa.gov/results. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.projects.penndot.gov.
PennDOT Announces Plans for the Route 3020 Culvert Replacement Project The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) invites the public to a Public Meeting with plans display regarding the Route 3020, Section D50 Culvert Replacement Project. The Route 3020 Section D50 project involves replacing the crossing of Route 3020 over a tributary to Lake Quinn in South Canaan Township, Wayne County. The project proposes to replace the existing concrete slab bridge with a new precast concrete box culvert. The new structure has been designed to improve the hydraulic performance of the original bridge and maintain the existing floodplains so as not to adversely affect adjacent property owners. Roadway improvements associated with the project include full-depth reconstruction in the vicinity of the bridge with guide rail and pavement marking installations where required. Only minor utility impacts are anticipated to construct the project. Public Meeting The in-person public display meeting for the project will take place on: Date: August 7, 2024 Time: 3:30 PM Location: 2238 Easton Turnpike Waymart PA 18472 (Township Building) The public comment period is from July 24, 2024 – August 21, 2024. The plans display will be held online and will be available from July 24, 2024 – August 21, 2024. Online information, including detailed project information and comment form, can be found by visiting the following PennDOT District 4-0 website: Route 3020 Section D50 Culvert Replacement Project (pa.gov). The purpose of the plans display is to introduce the project, display and describe the planned traffic control, and receive public input regarding questions or concerns with the project. The project documents can be made available in alternative languages or formats if requested. If you need translation/interpretation services or have special needs or have special concerns that require individual attention, contact Mr. Thomas Capitano, PennDOT Project Manager, at tcapitano@pa.gov. Pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, PennDOT does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability. If you feel that you have been denied the benefits of or participation in a PennDOT program or activity, you may contact the PennDOT, Bureau of Equal Opportunity, DBE/Title VI Division at 717-787-5891. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following local alerts on X. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional Twitter alerts accessible on the 511PA website. Subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming counties at www.penndot.pa.gov/District4. Information about infrastructure in District 4, including completed work and significant projects, is available at www.penndot.pa.gov/D4Results. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.projects.penndot.gov. Find PennDOT news on X, Facebook, and Instagram.
PennDOT/BPC Announce Lane Restrictions for Interstate 81 Motorists are advised that the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and Bridging Pennsylvania Constructors (BPC) are announcing lane restrictions on Interstate 81 northbound and southbound as part of the I-81 Susquehanna Bridges Project. Work will take place Saturday, July 27th, 2024 through Friday, September 13, 2024, between MM 223.6 and MM 232.7 from New Milford to Great Bend for paving, guide rail repair, and bridge beam installation and maintenance between 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM. This project is part of the ongoing PennDOT Major Bridges P3 Program. Bridging Pennsylvania Developers – I (BPD-I) is led jointly by Macquarie Capital and Shikun & Binui USA as Lead Project Developers and Equity Members. The Bridging Pennsylvania Constructors (BPC) joint venture (JV) consortium includes the design & construction expertise of FCC Construction and S&B USA Construction, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. S&B USA Construction is the construction arm of Shikun & Binui Ltd, and is also the parent company of Fay, one of the BPC four (4) Major Bridge subcontractors. Other Major Bridge subcontractors include The H&K Group, Kokosing Construction Company, Wagman Heavy Civil, and Lead Designer, Michael Baker International. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following local alerts on X. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional Twitter alerts accessible on the 511PA website. Subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming counties at www.penndot.pa.gov/District4. Information about infrastructure in District 4, including completed work and significant projects, is available at www.penndot.pa.gov/D4Results. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.projects.penndot.gov. Find PennDOT news on X, Facebook, and Instagram.
Governor’s Office Announces Improved Online Experience on 511PA The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) today announced that 511PA – Pennsylvania’s free, statewide travel information service – has been upgraded with a new website, mobile app, and phone system. This announcement comes just days after Governor Shapiro launched a new PA.gov meet Pennsylvanians where they are online, deliver human-centered digital experiences, and make Commonwealth services easier to find. “Each year, nearly 100 billion vehicle miles are traveled on Pennsylvania’s roads and bridges,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “The Shapiro Administration continues to improve Commonwealth services, so they are easier to find, more accessible, and readily available. The more information we can make available to the traveling public, the better. We’re proud of these enhancements and encourage travelers to check out the improved 511PA and ‘know before they go.’” Launched in 2009, 511PA is a statewide travel information service operated by PennDOT and PA Turnpike that helps reduce congestion and improve safety on Pennsylvania roadways. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts. Through the “Driving Mode” feature, motorists can receive these alerts hands-free so they can focus on safely driving. “We are committed to the safety of the 550,000 customers who choose the PA Turnpike daily and know that unforeseen incidents can happen on any road at any time,” said PA Turnpike Chief Operating Officer Craig Shuey. “We are excited that these changes to 511PA will improve the customer experience. This additional tool readily assists drivers before they get on the road with real-time information so they can stay informed with what is happening on the roadways.” Here are some of the updates users can expect: The redesigned 511PA mobile app has several new features, including the ability to limit alerts to your route, a new “My Cameras” feature and the option for alternate routes. The updated website has been completely redesigned to be more user-friendly and includes new personalization and customization to make it even easier to access the information users most care about. The phone system now provides a more streamlined menu to get callers the information they need faster. Users can also sign up for personalized travel alerts on the website. Current 511PA personal-alert subscribers need to create a new account in the updated system and set up their preferences to continue receiving alerts. A transformed 511PA app is part of the new system, so users will need to update their Apple or Android app to access the latest version. Subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts in your county at www.PennDOT.pa.gov/RegionalOffices. Find PennDOT’s planned and active construction projects at www.projects.penndot.gov. The PA Turnpike’s mission is to operate a safe, reliable, customer-valued toll road system that supports national mobility and commerce. Find resources and planned construction projects at Traveling on the PA Turnpike | PA Turnpike.
PennDOT Engineering District 4 Traffic Bulletin The PennDOT Engineering District 4 Traffic Bulletin advertises current and upcoming travel restrictions scheduled on state-owned highways in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming counties. The Traffic Bulletin is updated in real-time during normal business hours. Please note: The schedule is subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. The Traffic Bulletin link will be emailed on Fridays each week but can be viewed at your convenience any time of the day. To view the current Traffic Bulletin, go to the PennDOT Engineering District 4 website homepage, click on Traffic Bulletin, or click here: Traffic Bulletin (pa.gov). Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following local alerts on X. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional Twitter alerts accessible on the 511PA website. Subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming counties at www.penndot.pa.gov/District4.
PennDOT Announces Lane Restrictions on I-81 PennDOT announces there will be lane restrictions on Interstate 81 northbound and southbound beginning Monday, June 3, 2024, as follows: Interstate 81 northbound and southbound in Lackawanna County from Exit 191 (Dickson City) and Exit 194 (Clarks Summit), Monday, June 3-Thursday, June 6, 2024, from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM for ariel utility work. Interstate 81 northbound in Luzerne County from Exit 165 (Mountain Top/Wilkes-Barre) to Exit 180 (Moosic) in for shoulder cutting and pothole patching. Work will occur Monday, June 3, 2024, from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Motorists should expect delays and are advised to take alternate routes when possible. When encountering a work zone, please drive the posted speed limit, turn on your headlights, pay close attention to signs and flaggers, and avoid all distractions. In high-traffic locations, motorists are encouraged to use both lanes of travel to the merge point and take turns merging into the open lane. Motorists can check conditions on major roadways by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following local alerts on X.
PennDOT/BPD-I Continue I-80 Nescopeck Creek Bridges Construction Motorists are advised that the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and Bridging Pennsylvania Developers I (BPD-I) will continue pre-construction activities for the I-80 Nescopeck Creek Bridges Project in preparation of complete reconstruction of the two bridges carrying I-80 eastbound (EB) and westbound (WB) over Nescopeck Creek in Black Creek Township, Luzerne County. On or around Monday, June 10, the construction contractor Bridging Pennsylvania Constructors and Major Bridge subcontractor, Wagman will continue the first of four construction stages to be completed in 2027. Phase 1 of construction includes reconstructing the existing shoulders along eastbound Route 80, constructing the outside portion of the new eastbound Route 80 bridge over Nescopeck Creek, reconstructing a portion of Tank Road (Route 3016). A portion of the existing retaining wall along eastbound Route 80 due to the widened eastbound structure. Short term lane closures on I-80 EB will occur between 6:00 PM and 2:00 AM, on Monday through Friday, for approximately 2 weeks. The Phase 1 Tank Road (Route 3016) detour (graphic) will be implemented for all through traffic to support the following: Lowering the elevation of existing Tank Road (Route 3016) to prepare for the installation of a temporary traffic signal to be used from Phase 2 through the end of the project. Constructing a temporary construction access road connecting eastbound I-80 with Tank Road (Route 3016) for equipment and material deliveries during the bridge reconstruction. Maintained access for local traffic to residences and private properties along Tank Road (Route 3016). After Tank Road (Route 3016) has been reconstructed to the designed final elevation, the detour will be lifted. This is anticipated for late fall 2024. However, the temporary traffic signal on Tank Road will be utilized through all subsequent construction phases. Motorists can expect two lanes of traffic to be maintained in both north and south lanes at all times on Route 80, with the exception of occasional lane closures, which will occur during off-peak hours. In February 2024, PennDOT and BPD-I hosted the I-80 Nescopeck Pre-Construction Public Meeting in Nescopeck Township to introduce key members of the I-80 Nescopeck team and provide an update about specific pre-construction and anticipated upcoming construction activities, traffic plans and scheduling. To download the presentation, click here. This project is part of the ongoing PennDOT Major Bridges P3 Program. Bridging Pennsylvania Developers – I (BPD-I) is led jointly by Macquarie Capital and Shikun & Binui USA as Lead Project Developers and Equity Members. The Bridging Pennsylvania Constructors (BPC) joint venture (JV) consortium includes the design & construction expertise of FCC Construction and S&B USA Construction, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. S&B USA Construction is the construction arm of Shikun & Binui Ltd, and is also the parent company of Fay, one of the BPC four Major Bridge subcontractors. Other Major Bridge subcontractors include The H&K Group, Kokosing Construction Company, Wagman Heavy Civil, and Lead Designer, Michael Baker International. Motorists can check conditions on major roadway miles by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. 511PA is also available through a smartphone application for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional Twitter alerts accessible on the 511PA website. Subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming counties at www.penndot.pa.gov/District4. Information about infrastructure in District 4, including completed work and significant projects, is available at www.penndot.pa.gov/D4Results.
PennDOT Driver License, Photo Centers Closed for Memorial Day The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced that all driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Saturday, May 25, 2024, through Monday, May 27, 2024, in observance of Memorial Day. Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services, including all forms, publications, and driver training manuals, online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website. Driver and vehicle online services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and include driver’s license, photo ID and vehicle registration renewals; driver-history services; changes of address; driver license and vehicle registration restoration letters; ability to pay driver license or vehicle insurance restoration fee; driver license and photo ID duplicates; REAL ID pre-verification; and driver exam scheduling. There are no additional fees for using online services. A complete listing of PennDOT driver and photo license center closings in 2024 is available online. If you are planning to visit one of PennDOT’s On-Line Messenger Service Centers, please call ahead for hours of operation during holidays. Motorists can check conditions on major roadway miles by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras.
