The ongoing construction of the Route 100 (Pottstown Pike) bridge over U.S. 322 (West Chester Bypass) in West Goshen Township is set to enter a new phase. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) scheduling overnight superstructure replacements starting next week, as per their latest announcement. This part of the upgrade is targeted at enhancing the bridge's integrity and longevity, a key connector in Chester County that sees a significant daily traffic volume.
For the drivers around Chester County, heads up – travel restrictions are imminent. Specifically, on Thursday, August 8, from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. the following morning, U.S. 322 (West Chester Bypass) will be completely off-limits in both directions between Phoenixville Pike and New Street. Detours will become a temporary new normal, with westbound travelers rerouted through Paoli Pike Interchange, Gay Street, and a few more, while eastbound traffic will be directed to use Business U.S. 322 amongst other roads. Commuters, you've been warned: allow some extra minutes to your journey, as delays are on the cards.
Last year's incident, where a large vehicle collided with the Route 100 bridge, caused substantial structural damage, leading to a shutdown of both Route 100 (Pottstown Pike), U.S. 322 (West Chester Bypass), and the connecting ramp from Route 100 to eastbound U.S. 322. Following the accident, clean-up ensued, and the contractor engaged by PennDOT made necessary repairs where debris had fallen onto the roadway. Bridging back to 1955, the single-span, steel stringer Route 100 bridge stretches 77 feet long and 80 feet wide. A critical artery, the bridge shoulders the burden of approximately 15,691 vehicles per day.
