Additional Pa. Turnpike Ramps Coming for Great Valley

A long debated "slip ramp" onto and off the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Chester County is one step closer to reality.

KYW's David Madden reports that work is expected to begin on the project early next year.

Corporate growth in the Great Valley area has caused traffic congestion problems on the turnpike between Valley Forge and Downingtown, according to Joe Brimmeier, CEO of the turnpike:

"Right now we're looking at well over 50,000 cars a day that use that section of the turnpike. By 2025, that 14-mile stretch will have about 150,000 vehicles a day on it."

Hence, he says, the need for EZ-Pass-only entrance and exit ramps at Route 29.

The project has been held up over noise and storm water concerns, but local officials now say those worries have now been virtually addressed.

Bids on the $83-million project will go out this fall, with the first groundbreaking scheduled for March of next year and completion in about two years.  Other projects expected to ease congestion in that area are expansion of the turnpike in the area to three lanes each way and improvements on Route 202.

(Photo provided)