Local residents will have a chance to provide input on a major roadway project.
PennDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced two upcoming public meetings to discuss the I-83 South Bridge Project.
The meeting will focus on the Environmental Assessment prepared for the project and give community members a chance to view and comment on it.
Hearings will take place from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Nov. 1 at Hotel Indigo Harrisburg, 765 Eisenhower Blvd., and Nov. 2 at the Penn Harris Hotel, 1150 Camp Hill Bypass, Camp Hill.
According to PennDOT, the South Bridge, between Harrisburg and Lemoyne, is an aging structure that no longer meets current design standards.
“Due to bridge conditions and anticipated increases in traffic volumes, the bridge and its connections on the west shore and east shore need to be upgraded,” said a statement from PennDOT. “By investing in improvements today, we can ensure that the I-83 South Bridge can support the future needs of the Harrisburg region.”
In July, PennDOT announced that it would drop a previous proposal to toll the bridge and find alternative ways to financially support the project.
The agency hopes to begin the project in 2025.
The environmental assessment, prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, examines the potential impacts to natural, social, economic, and cultural resources from this project.
At the meetings, an open house display on the project will be available for viewing. Formal public testimony opportunities will take place at 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. each day, with a break in between sessions.
All of the project material from the open house, including a project overview, maps, and Environmental Assessment documents are available online, from now through Nov. 16.
People may comment on the project in person, in writing, through an online comment form or through email.
PennDOT asks that those providing testimony at the public hearings register in advance at www.penndot.pa.gov/i83SouthBridge or by calling 717-743-1005.
Emailed comments can be sent to i83SouthBridge@pa.gov and written comments may be brought to the meeting or mailed to: PennDOT District 8, I-83 South Bridge Project, Attn: Marwa Said, 2140 Herr St., Harrisburg, PA 17103.
To learn more about the I-83 South Bridge Project, visit PennDOT’s website.