Commuters and travelers in Pine Grove Township, Schuylkill County, are advised of upcoming road closures due to bridge repair work on PA 443 and Interstate 81 North.
Both closures listed below are in response to a bridge beam damaged by a vehicle on November 1, 2023. The replacement beam is anticipated to be installed in the spring of 2024.
PA 443 Closure:
Starting Friday night, November 17, 2023, PennDOT contractors will begin bridge repair work on PA 443, between the Interstate 81 North and South Ramps. The repair involves the removal of a damaged bridge beam over I-81 North. The closure will be sporadic and is scheduled from 7 p.m. on Friday through 10 p.m. on Saturday.
During this period, westbound traffic on PA 443 will be rerouted onto I-81 North, leading to Exit 104 (PA 125) and then directed to I-81 South. Eastbound traffic on PA 443 will follow a detour on I-81 South to Exit 90 (PA 72) and then onto I-81 North.
Interstate 81 North Closure:
During this period, westbound traffic on PA 443 will be rerouted onto I-81 North, leading to Exit 104 (PA 125) and then directed to I-81 South. Eastbound traffic on PA 443 will follow a detour on I-81 South to Exit 90 (PA 72) and then onto I-81 North.
Interstate 81 North Closure:
Subsequently, on November 18, 2023, bridge repair work will begin on Interstate 81 North, between Exit 90 (PA 72) and Exit 104 (PA 125). The closure will be in effect during nighttime hours, from 1:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., to facilitate the removal of a damaged bridge beam over PA 443.
I-81 North traffic will be diverted to exit and re-enter the highway at Exit 100 (PA 443). Additionally, the I-81 North shoulder on the bridge will remain closed until further notice. Delays are expected, and drivers are advised to use caution while navigating through the area.
I-81 North traffic will be diverted to exit and re-enter the highway at Exit 100 (PA 443). Additionally, the I-81 North shoulder on the bridge will remain closed until further notice. Delays are expected, and drivers are advised to use caution while navigating through the area.