6 days ago
PennDOT considering 12-month Bayfront Pkwy. closure to avoid project delays
PennDOT officials have announced setbacks in the Bayfront Parkway Improvement Project, which could delay its completion from 2027 to 2029.
The project, which began construction in 2023, has encountered unexpected underground challenges, prompting PennDOT to consider closing a section of the Parkway for 12 to 14 months to recover lost time.
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'One of those things was the way we wanted to route the underground utilities under the bayfront near State Street,' said Jill Harry, PennDOT Press Officer for District 1. 'We had to pick a different path than our original plan. It was quite a bit longer, so that process has taken us longer than anticipated.'
PennDOT is considering closing the Parkway from Holland to Sassafras Streets after Labor Day, which would include the section where drivers access the Parkway at State Street.
This closure is proposed to last 12 to 14 months, with partial reopening expected in the fall of 2026. Access to Bayfront businesses and attractions will remain available during the construction, but PennDOT advises that through traffic and pedestrians use alternate routes to avoid congestion.
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PennDOT plans to present their updated plans to the public on Thursday at the Erie Port Authority from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Jill Harry encourages the public to attend, stating, 'You can look at the maps for the detour and things like that, but the best part is that you can talk one-on-one with a member of our team with concerns or questions that you have.'
The proposed detour for through traffic is 12th Street, or Route 5, while West Front Street or East Front Street should be used for accessing waterfront businesses and amenities. PennDOT is discouraging through traffic on these streets to ensure access for local deliveries and business access.
In addition to keeping the project's timeline in check, PennDOT estimates that the closure plan could save approximately $8 million.
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With these adjustments, PennDOT aims to mitigate delays and maintain access to local businesses, while saving costs and ensuring the project's timely completion.
More information on the Bayfront Parkway Project is available on the PennDOT
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