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Commuters who depend on Route 45 should prepare for detours beginning Tuesday. As per an announcement from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the stretch of highway is getting a long-awaited facelift. The resurfacing is set to improve ride quality and give the road a longer service life. Part of a larger operation, 20 miles across Centre and Clinton counties are on the list for upgrades.
The contractor is taking a break for Labor Day on Monday, September 1, with no work scheduled that day. But come Tuesday, it's all systems go between Williams Road and Penns Cave Road in Potter and Gregg townships. Motorists are advised not to be alarmed if they see flaggers on the road. They are in place to ensure safety and manage traffic, and drivers are urged to follow their directions and posted signs. The PennDOT press release was clear: expect delays and be cautious.
Paving is scheduled to begin the week of September 8, with the same traffic control measures in place. Drivers are reminded that schedules may change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. Roads slated for work include Route 45, Interstate 99 and Route 144 in Centre County, Route 477 in Clinton County, and Route 2012 (Youngdale Road/East Keller Street).
Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc. of State College is overseeing the $5.7 million project, which is expected to be completed by mid-November. Officials noted that the timeline remains weather-dependent, a sentiment echoed by the PennDOT announcement. In the meantime, motorists are encouraged to download the 511PA app or dial 5-1-1 for up-to-date traffic conditions. The service is especially useful during ongoing roadwork.
For more local PennDOT updates and traffic alerts in Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Juniata, McKean, Mifflin, and Potter counties, residents can sign up at www.penndot.pa.gov/District2. Officials encourage drivers to stay informed, practice patience, and look forward to smoother roads ahead.
