PennDOT Schedules Pothole Patching Projects Across Schuylkill County

Motorists traveling through several areas of Schuylkill County next week should be prepared for daytime lane restrictions as PennDOT maintenance forces conduct pothole patching work on multiple state routes.

PennDOT Announces Upcoming Road Work in Schuylkill County

Schuylkill County motorists should be prepared for two upcoming road projects that will cause temporary lane restrictions in West Penn and Rush Townships.

Minersville’s ATV Tourism Initiative Draws State Leaders

Minersville, PA – September 11, 2025 — Minersville Borough’s ATV tourism initiative drew the attention of state leaders on Thursday, as Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Michael Carroll visited the community to see firsthand how the program is revitalizing the local economy while ensuring public safety.

The event, hosted by Minersville Mayor Sean Palmer began at the Minersville Water Authority building, where state and local officials gathered to discuss the initiative’s success and operational model. Among those in attendance were Sen. Dave Argall (R-29), Reps. Tim Twardzik (R-123), Jamie Barton (R-124), JoAnne Stehr (R-107), Minersville Police Chief Jeffrey Bowers, representatives from the offices of Congressman Dan Meuser, Sen. Dave McCormick, and Sen. John Fetterman, as well as leaders from Famous Reading Outdoors and local emergency services.

Mayor Palmer, who initiated the high-profile visit with a formal letter, explained that the borough recognized off-road recreation as a growing sector for Pennsylvania. Partnering with Famous Reading Outdoors (FRO), one of the state’s largest off-road parks, Minersville sought to reverse economic stagnation by drawing ATV riders into its downtown business district.

Since its launch two years ago, the program has expanded from weekend-only riding to a full seven-day operation. Businesses have seen a steady increase in customers, with visitors from Pennsylvania and neighboring states filling restaurants, gas stations, and stores. Some establishments have gone as far as building dirt parking lots and ATV wash stations to better serve riders. The economic impact has also reached residential neighborhoods, as visitors have begun purchasing and renovating homes in areas.

Revenue from the program is directed toward community projects, including recreation complexes, playgrounds, and children’s facilities. Chief of Police Jeffrey Bowers reported strong compliance and safety outcomes, noting, “We have not had an issue as far as our department with any since it’s been in conception.” To support enforcement and emergency response, FRO has donated a side-by-side vehicle to the police and a six-seater rescue ATV to Minersville Fire and Rescue.

PennDOT Secretary Carroll praised the initiative and acknowledged the department’s evolving stance on ATV use on certain state roads. He explained that while high-volume highways like Route 61 remain off-limits, PennDOT is now open to local applications for ATV access on low-volume routes. He cited Tioga County’s Route 49 as the first approved state road for side-by-side use and highlighted a new crossing light at Route 61 and Dark Water Road that will link trail systems and bring more riders into Minersville.

“If it’s working in Shamokin and it’s working in Minersville, I think we can all learn from their experience,” Carroll said. Senator Argall echoed the sentiment, commending the borough’s proactive attitude: “Minersville said, ‘Hell yes,’ when other communities were hesitant.”

Following the discussion, officials toured the borough’s business district in off-road vehicles before heading onto Famous Reading Outdoors land for a six-mile ride, which included a stop at the site known as “the Incline” for a group photo.

Looking ahead, Famous Reading Outdoors plans to expand its trail network with new land leases, while the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is developing a similar project in Hazleton, expected to open by spring.

Blasting Operations to Impact Route 61 "The Grade" Traffic Through Late September

SCHUYLKILL COUNTY. - The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) says that short-term traffic stoppages will be in place on Route 61 “The Grade” between Frackville and St. Clair for blasting operations starting next week.

PennDOT Hosting Job Fair in Schuylkill County for Winter Positions

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) will hold a job fair in Schuylkill County to recruit for upcoming winter positions.

Morea Road Paving Project Continues This Week Near Frackville and West Mahanoy Township

Motorists traveling between Frackville and West Mahanoy Township should be prepared for ongoing daytime lane restrictions as PennDOT maintenance crews continue paving work on Morea Road this week.

Road Work Scheduled on Several Schuylkill County Roads Next Week

PennDOT has announced upcoming road work that will affect drivers in different parts of Schuylkill County over the next week. 

New “Let Freedom Ring” License Plates Now Available for Pennsylvania Drivers

In anticipation of America’s 250th birthday celebration in 2026, Pennsylvania has officially released its new “Let Freedom Ring” license plate, now available for all Commonwealth drivers to order.

PennDOT to Close Road in Union and West Mahanoy Townships for Milling and Paving Project

A section of Raven Run Road in Union and West Mahanoy Townships will be closed around the clock for approximately four weeks starting Wednesday, May 7, 2025.

Lane Restrictions Scheduled for Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County

Motorists traveling on Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County should prepare for lane restrictions as PennDOT conducts roadwork in multiple locations. 

Road Work Scheduled on Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County This Week

Schuylkill County drivers should expect to see road work this week as the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) conducts crack sealing on Interstate 81.

Schuylkill Haven Driver License Center to Close Temporarily to Undergo Upgrades, Reopening in March

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that the Schuylkill Haven Driver License Center will undergo extensive interior renovations, including new flooring, updated furniture, and the addition of an extra photo system to improve services. 

Winter Weather Leads to Speed Reductions and Travel Restrictions in Schuylkill County

Due to the severity of the winter storm impacting the region, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has temporarily reduced speed limits and implemented travel restrictions on several highways, including Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County.

PennDOT Announces Lane and Ramp Restrictions on Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County

Schuylkill County motorists traveling on Interstate 81 should plan for daytime lane and ramp restrictions starting next week as the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) conducts crack sealing and inspections.

Rep. Dane Watro: Emergency Programs Can Save Lives

Emergency Programs Can Save Lives

By State Rep. Dane Watro (R-Luzerne/Schuylkill)

PennDOT is reminding residents of two voluntary programs aimed at saving lives in emergency situations. Participation in both programs is free of charge.

North Schuylkill Needs Your Vote in PennDOT's "Paint the Plow" Contest

Voting is underway for PennDOT's annual "Paint the Plow" Contest, and North Schuylkill High School is representing Schuylkill County in this creative competition.

Speed Limits Reduced on Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County Due to Weather Conditions

      

PennDOT has reduced the speed limits on Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County due to weather conditions.

Road Work Scheduled for Two Interstate 81 Ramps in Schuylkill County This Week

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced scheduled road work for Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County. 

PennDOT Announces Roadwork and Lane Restrictions on I-81 in Schuylkill County

SCHUYLKILL COUNTY, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced a series of upcoming roadwork projects on Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County, with planned lane closures and restrictions over the next few weeks. 

PennDOT to Offer Special REAL ID Service Hours at Schuylkill Haven DMV Ahead of Federal Deadline

In preparation for the upcoming Federal REAL ID enforcement deadline on May 7, 2025, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced special REAL ID service hours at the Schuylkill Haven Driver License Center.