Somerset County has been waiting 40 years for a high-speed, limited-access upgrade to US 219 and it looks it might begin this year. If everything goes well, bids could open in November.
http://www.wjactv.com/news/22275799/detail.html
This is great news! I've been waiting for them to start work on the completion of the US-219 expressway extension from the Meyersdale Bypass down to I-68.
I wonder if this will help out the section between Somerset and Meyersdale as well? Because I haven't heard anything on that segment in awhile.
Here's a related story, from the Johnstown paper:
http://www.tribune-democrat.com/local/local_story_016234604.html
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on January 20, 2010, 07:26:46 PM
This is great news! I've been waiting for them to start work on the completion of the US-219 expressway extension from the Meyersdale Bypass down to I-68.
I wonder if this will help out the section between Somerset and Meyersdale as well? Because I haven't heard anything on that segment in awhile.
It's actually for the Somerset to Myersdale segment.
Figures I would be wrong. lol.
Still either segment would be welcomed. :)
I'd even say that the Somerset <--> Meyersdale segment would be even more welcome, since that current stretch of 219 is even worse than the Meyersdal <--> I-68 segment.
I still won't believe it until I see / drive it.
Officials Renewing Push To Extend Route 219 (http://www.wjactv.com/news/24991589/detail.html) - WJAC-TV Johnstown
Tolls... Hmmmm.... Don't know what to say about that.
Maybe if I could play the lottery and win, I should loan them the $37 Million to fund the Somerset > Meyersdale segment Toll Free. haha.
Tolling shouldn't come as a surprise option since this section and Ebensburg north were on a list for a second round of PTC extensions.
I know that many cite the Continental 1 reason for building this road, but I've lived in PA all my life and the northern part of Cambria, Clearfield, McKean, and Elk counties is the most desolate area in the state. I can't see anyone justifying a multi-billion dollar highway through this area...especially with I-99 just 25 miles to the east.
If I-99 is the pet project, then divert this money to actually FINISHING that road before we move on to another one.
Quote from: LeftyJR on September 14, 2010, 11:06:11 AM
I know that many cite the Continental 1 reason for building this road, but I've lived in PA all my life and the northern part of Cambria, Clearfield, McKean, and Elk counties is the most desolate area in the state. I can't see anyone justifying a multi-billion dollar highway through this area...especially with I-99 just 25 miles to the east.
Once you get to that Northern Part at I-80, it's certainly more than 25 miles apart (About 64 miles via I-80, doing the math by exit numbers), then north of I-80 they spread even further apart....
But I completely agree that north of I-80, no one is going to justify a freeway thru the Allegheny National Forest area. I think the most we'll ever see in our lifetimes is maybe some sort of bypass (and probably 2-lane at that) of Brockway, Ridgway, and maybe Wilcox. If 219 is ever actually fully upgraded in NY, and between I-80 & I-68, maybe there will be pressure to finish such a "missing link". But I'll be surprised to see even those sections built (MAYBE NY will get it done all the way down to Salamanca)
QuoteIf I-99 is the pet project, then divert this money to actually FINISHING that road before we move on to another one.
North of the PA Turnpike, I agree... Though south of the Turnpike, my opinion is that 219 is still the priority. The remaining
current corridor in Somerset County is much worse than US-220 south of Bedford (which I think has no plans for any upgrade / Future I-99 ambitions at this time anyway), and would probably be a better use of money (assuming it can even be found). And while it certainly has seemed that I-99 has been the "pet project" the last couple of decades, I think US-219 in Somerset County has been on the books for just as long (though I could be wrong about that)
Quote from: Mr_Northside on September 14, 2010, 11:43:03 AM
North of the PA Turnpike, I agree... Though south of the Turnpike, my opinion is that 219 is still the priority. The remaining current corridor in Somerset County is much worse than US-220 south of Bedford (which I think has no plans for any upgrade / Future I-99 ambitions at this time anyway), and would probably be a better use of money (assuming it can even be found). And while it certainly has seemed that I-99 has been the "pet project" the last couple of decades, I think US-219 in Somerset County has been on the books for just as long (though I could be wrong about that)
I actually concur with you on that aspect. US-219 south of Somerset is really bad. Did you see this? http://times-news.com/local/x223861946/ARC-official-supports-highway - The only thing that could be a problem with this is that US 220 between MD and Bedford could get a huge increase in traffic w/o a four lane road there.
Although, US 220 has 4 lane right of way south of Bedford for at least 5 miles.
US 220 between Bedford and Cumberland was originally part of the ARC corridor slated for improvement (and probably expanded into the southernmost portion of I-99). However that mileage as part of the ARC system was swapped for something in the State College area, I think US 322 west from Port Matilda over to I-80. So it looks like I-99 will not go south to Cumberland as originally planned.
I drove US 219 last year on my way back from State College. With the exception of the Meyersdale bypass, it's not something I am interested in doing again. US 119 and/or US 220 are much better alternatives if you need to travel north from the I-68 corridor into Pennsylvania.
But Corridor O-1 is a goner as far as I know...although it would give credence to the idea that US 219 doesn't need to be expanded north of Carrolltown.
Quote from: Mr_Northside on September 14, 2010, 11:43:03 AM
Quote from: LeftyJR on September 14, 2010, 11:06:11 AM
I think the most we'll ever see in our lifetimes is maybe some sort of bypass (and probably 2-lane at that) of Brockway, Ridgway, and maybe Wilcox.
At one point there were plans for a 2-lane Ridgway bypass, and I believe a 2-lane Johnsonburg bypass is soon to open - it goes west of the borough by crossing over the Clarion River twice.
Quote from: Mr_Northside on September 14, 2010, 11:43:03 AM
MAYBE NY will get it done all the way down to Salamanca
That's the plan, but it will take a LONG time. Only two segments of that will be done by 2020 (about 2-3 miles per segment, I think).
Quote from: hbelkins on September 14, 2010, 01:49:18 PM
US 220 between Bedford and Cumberland was originally part of the ARC corridor slated for improvement (and probably expanded into the southernmost portion of I-99). However that mileage as part of the ARC system was swapped for something in the State College area, I think US 322 west from Port Matilda over to I-80. So it looks like I-99 will not go south to Cumberland as originally planned.
It will not as indicated by the exit numbers beginning at the Business 220 connector. If (and that's a big if) an interchange is ever built at the Turnpike, it'd get the second "Exit 0" in PA.
Quote from: hbelkins on September 14, 2010, 01:49:18 PMI drove US 219 last year on my way back from State College. With the exception of the Meyersdale bypass, it's not something I am interested in doing again. US 119 and/or US 220 are much better alternatives if you need to travel north from the I-68 corridor into Pennsylvania.
That section isn't as bad as the one north of Ebensburg. Last year PennDOT decided to give Cambria and Clearfield Counties a consolation prize by requesting an Alternate US 219 (http://cms.transportation.org/sites/route/docs/Alt%20US%20219%20USRN_Electronic%20Application.pdf).
Quote from: PAHighways on September 15, 2010, 02:16:54 PM
That section isn't as bad as the one north of Ebensburg. Last year PennDOT decided to give Cambria and Clearfield Counties a consolation prize by requesting an Alternate US 219 (http://cms.transportation.org/sites/route/docs/Alt%20US%20219%20USRN_Electronic%20Application.pdf).
I have a camp in this area, and I have to admit, US 219 north of Carrolltown is horrible. It goes through several small towns (like Northern Cambria) which has multiple stop signs and lights. PA-36 is a much better alternative for people using this for through traffic. US 219 does get better once you get out of Cambria County, though.
Quote from: jemacedo9 on September 14, 2010, 10:03:45 PMAt one point there were plans for a 2-lane Ridgway bypass, and I believe a 2-lane Johnsonburg bypass is soon to open - it goes west of the borough by crossing over the Clarion River twice.
It is planned to open on September 21 (http://www.dot.state.pa.us/penndot/districts/district2.nsf/a49f8addf0b73b1585256863004ed760/b8851010e7c0cc0f8525779f00615ad9?OpenDocument).
Quote from: LeftyJR on September 15, 2010, 03:44:16 PM
Quote from: PAHighways on September 15, 2010, 02:16:54 PM
That section isn't as bad as the one north of Ebensburg. Last year PennDOT decided to give Cambria and Clearfield Counties a consolation prize by requesting an Alternate US 219 (http://cms.transportation.org/sites/route/docs/Alt%20US%20219%20USRN_Electronic%20Application.pdf).
I have a camp in this area, and I have to admit, US 219 north of Carrolltown is horrible. It goes through several small towns (like Northern Cambria) which has multiple stop signs and lights. PA-36 is a much better alternative for people using this for through traffic. US 219 does get better once you get out of Cambria County, though.
When I lived in Ebensburg years ago, I always traveled the route which will become ALT 219 when heading north. Easily at least 10 minutes faster. Now if there was a way around Carrolltown and its speed traps...
PA 36 is a pretty nice road for its entire length. Like you said, its easily at least 10 minutes faster to Mahaffey from Carrolltown.
I haven't seen many speed traps on 219 in Carrolltown, but on Carroll Road towards Patton - that's another story!
Somerset County Leaders Waiting on $35 Million for Route 219 Project (http://www.wjactv.com/video/26135966/index.html) - WJAC-TV Johnstown
Sounds good. Still won't believe it until they're turning dirt though.
Quote from: Mr_Northside on December 16, 2010, 02:23:04 PM
Sounds good. Still won't believe it until they're turning dirt though.
I'll second that.
Tolls An Option To Fund Route 219 Project (http://www.wjactv.com/news/26624592/detail.html) - WJAC-TV Johnstown
Not surprising since US 219 was included in a list of a second round of PTC Extensions.
Quote from: PAHighways on January 26, 2011, 05:39:51 PM
Tolls An Option To Fund Route 219 Project (http://www.wjactv.com/news/26624592/detail.html) - WJAC-TV Johnstown
Did anybody else hear what the reported said at the end of the report in the video? She said "Interstate" instead of highway.
Doesn't necessarily mean anything. Reporters confuse the two all the time...
I'd have thought hearing the name "Shuster" would have perked up more ears.
^^^
I'm assuming that this is the son of the Bud Shuster of I-99 fame.
If he follows in his dad's footsteps, it might actually become I-219! :pan:
One in the same (http://www.house.gov/shuster/).
At least it's still moving ahead enough that they're finishing up right-of-way acquisition, and some utility relocation.
Quote from: mightyace on January 27, 2011, 02:13:47 PM
^^^
I'm assuming that this is the son of the Bud Shuster of I-99 fame.
If he follows in his dad's footsteps, it might actually become I-219! :pan:
I-219??? :-D That's even more ridiculous than that I-238 misfit out in the Bay Area!
Whatever happened to I-67? Are they still going to try that number out there?
Quote from: Henry on January 31, 2011, 10:22:38 AM
I-219??? :-D That's even more ridiculous than that I-238 misfit out in the Bay Area!
That's the joke. If Bill Schuster wants to top his dad vis-a-vis I-99, then he needs to something more outrageous and an "I-219" in southern PA would certainly fit the bill. (pun intended) :sombrero:
Quote from: Henry on January 31, 2011, 10:22:38 AMWhatever happened to I-67? Are they still going to try that number out there?
That designation was proposed by Bud's congressional neighbor, John Murtha. Now that he has passed, I doubt it will get an Interstate designation.
Quote from: PAHighways on January 31, 2011, 04:55:21 PM
Quote from: Henry on January 31, 2011, 10:22:38 AMWhatever happened to I-67? Are they still going to try that number out there?
That designation was proposed by Bud's congressional neighbor, John Murtha. Now that he has passed, I doubt it will get an Interstate designation.
I still hope it could. Then my avatar could come to life. :sombrero:
Quote from: PAHighways on January 27, 2011, 01:59:19 PM
I'd have thought hearing the name "Shuster" would have perked up more ears.
Hey all you Bud lovers (sarcasm), here's a link to an article that recently appeared in the Altoona paper regarding the 10th anniversary of his retirement:
http://www.altoonamirror.com/page/content.detail/id/546701/Former-congressman-takes-time-to-teach--hang-out-on-the-farm.html?nav=742
:-D
Shuster Introduces Toll Credit Bill for Road (http://www.altoonamirror.com/page/content.detail/id/548692/Shuster-introduces-toll-credit-bill-for-road.html?nav=742) - Altoona Mirror
Johnsonburg Bypass now on OSM: http://www.openstreetmap.org/?lat=41.48823&lon=-78.67742&zoom=15&layers=M
it is probably going to be signed as a interstate that is way off the grid... such as I-51...
Well, it's not like there are any free numbers on the grid.
I believe I-67 has been the suggested number for over a decade now.
John Murtha suggested I-67 (http://www.pahighways.com/interstates/I67.html) back in the late 1990s, but now that he has passed on, I would be very surprised if it ever sports Interstate shields.
Yeah, if it become an Interstate (most likely the Southern segment that connects to I-68 unless a direct connection is made ever to the Turnpike), it would be an I-x68.
Quote from: PAHighways on May 16, 2011, 01:00:35 PM
John Murtha suggested I-67 (http://www.pahighways.com/interstates/I67.html) back in the late 1990s, but now that he has passed on, I would be very surprised if it ever sports Interstate shields.
At some point, that corridor will get upgrade money, and it will be an Interstate when it does so. That is my bold prediction.
"Guilty until proven innocent" is what I like to say. I will not believe it until construction starts.
http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/news/us/transit-bill-kicks-can-down-the-road-642908/ (http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/news/us/transit-bill-kicks-can-down-the-road-642908/)
Most of the article is about the new transportation bill... but towards the end, the representative from Johnstown believes the new bill will be good for getting US-219 done. (Between Somerset & I-68)
Also reporting:
http://articles.dailyamerican.com/2012-07-01/opinion/32497955_1_transportation-bill-provision-toll-credits-appalachian-development-highway-system (http://articles.dailyamerican.com/2012-07-01/opinion/32497955_1_transportation-bill-provision-toll-credits-appalachian-development-highway-system)
While they are at it, PennDOT and the PTC could get rid of the breezewood-style non-connection between the E-W mainline of the Turnpike and U.S. 219 at Somerset.
Not a chance, right?
Breezewood go away.......no I need my Sheetz.
Quote from: cpzilliacus on July 10, 2012, 04:58:47 PM
While they are at it, PennDOT and the PTC could get rid of the breezewood-style non-connection between the E-W mainline of the Turnpike and U.S. 219 at Somerset.
Not a chance, right?
Not a chance of that being a part of this particular project. And I doubt it will be a separate project anytime soon. (Though it would be nice.)
Though for this particular exit, I wouldn't even refer it as a Breezewood-style. (Though I know why one
would.)... Mostly cause I think they're too far apart (the current exit and freeway, I mean)
I get that the TPK exit would have been signed for US-219 due to it's original routing; since the freeway didn't come along (and re-route 219) until later, but now that seems outdated.
But what the situation needs is a completely new interchange with the freeway, and the current exit signed for the local state routes
The concept of "Continental 1" is something I just learned about recently, and I have a burning question about it that I didn't think would warrant its own new thread, so this seems like a somewhat appropriate place to ask:
Why is the preferred route the U.S. 219 route as opposed to I-79/I-90 to Buffalo and beyond? Even if the entire 219 corridor is one day made Interstate quality, it seems like 79/90 would still be the more direct route, so why not just go with that and not have to worry about the completed route being contingent on roads that may or may not ever be upgraded to the appropriate level?
Quote from: wphiii on July 20, 2012, 02:58:01 PM
Why is the preferred route the U.S. 219 route as opposed to I-79/I-90 to Buffalo and beyond?
Because the promoters live on US 219.
Quote from: NE2 on July 20, 2012, 03:44:48 PM
Quote from: wphiii on July 20, 2012, 02:58:01 PM
Why is the preferred route the U.S. 219 route as opposed to I-79/I-90 to Buffalo and beyond?
Because the promoters live on US 219.
Ding-ding-ding! We have a winner!
Give that man a cookie, a gold star, a firm, dry handshake!
Quote from: wphiii on July 20, 2012, 02:58:01 PM
Why is the preferred route the U.S. 219 route as opposed to I-79/I-90 to Buffalo and beyond? Even if the entire 219 corridor is one day made Interstate quality, it seems like 79/90 would still be the more direct route, so why not just go with that and not have to worry about the completed route being contingent on roads that may or may not ever be upgraded to the appropriate level?
Preferred route from where? Washington, D.C. to Buffalo preferred route is either via I-99 and US-219, or via US-15.
The "all Interstate" route via Pittsburgh is much longer.
Clicking on the "View Map" link on continental1.org (http://continental1.org) Continental 1 actually takes US 119 from DuBois to US 22. I would suspect this is due to environmental mitigation needed if a freeway is built in the Susquehanna headwaters.
The zig-zag nature of the route south of there (away from the Mon-Fayette) suggests that the freeway is desired for local development only. I-99 or US 15 would be easier for Buffalo area travelers south of I-80.
Quote from: okc1 on July 21, 2012, 04:19:36 PM
Clicking on the "View Map" link on continental1.org (http://continental1.org) Continental 1 actually takes US 119 from DuBois to US 22. I would suspect this is due to environmental mitigation needed if a freeway is built in the Susquehanna headwaters.
The zig-zag nature of the route south of there (away from the Mon-Fayette) suggests that the freeway is desired for local development only. I-99 or US 15 would be easier for Buffalo area travelers south of I-80.
I can't imagine why the route wouldn't stay on US 119 down to Morgantown. The most puzzling piece of their admittedly puzzling puzzle.
Quote from: okc1 on July 21, 2012, 04:19:36 PM
Clicking on the "View Map" link on continental1.org (http://continental1.org) Continental 1 actually takes US 119 from DuBois to US 22. I would suspect this is due to environmental mitigation needed if a freeway is built in the Susquehanna headwaters.
I think that's an error: http://continental1.org/maps
Quote from: Beltway on July 21, 2012, 12:28:22 PM
Quote from: wphiii on July 20, 2012, 02:58:01 PM
Why is the preferred route the U.S. 219 route as opposed to I-79/I-90 to Buffalo and beyond? Even if the entire 219 corridor is one day made Interstate quality, it seems like 79/90 would still be the more direct route, so why not just go with that and not have to worry about the completed route being contingent on roads that may or may not ever be upgraded to the appropriate level?
Preferred route from where? Washington, D.C. to Buffalo preferred route is either via I-99 and US-219, or via US-15.
The "all Interstate" route via Pittsburgh is much longer.
The preferred route from Miami, which is the essence (http://continental1.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/C-1_Map_web.jpg) of the "Continental 1" concept.
Quote from: wphiii on July 22, 2012, 07:53:33 PM
The preferred route from Miami, which is the essence (http://continental1.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/C-1_Map_web.jpg) of the "Continental 1" concept.
Seriously. Who the hell would take I-74 through NC when I-26 to I-77 exists? And 219 rather than 43-119-66-22-119 north of I-68? Oink.
Somebody's smoking something. That route is four hours longer than the one suggested by Google.
Quote from: NE2 on July 22, 2012, 08:07:03 PM
Seriously. Who the hell would take I-74 through NC when I-26 to I-77 exists? And 219 rather than 43-119-66-22-119 north of I-68? Oink.
I can foresee a desire to avoid the tolls on the WV Turnpike, although the preferred route would use US 19 to connect to I-79 instead of going through the most curvy and mountainous portion with the hideously low 60 mph speed limit.
I drove US 119 in its entirety in Pennsylvania last year, as well as all of 219 between Buffalo and US 22 (having previously done 219 from US 22 south to I-68) and there are some spots along 119 that aren't attractive to through long-distance traffic. Ditto for 219.
Work on Route 219 Expansion Officially Under Way; Crews Removing 250 Acres of Trees (http://www.wjactv.com/news/news/work-route-219-expansion-officially-under-way-crew/nWQWB/)
http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/washington/after-48-years-somerset-road-project-begins-676784/ (http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/washington/after-48-years-somerset-road-project-begins-676784/)
The P-G's report on it.
It also mentions that the Mountain Watershed Association is trying to halt work, contending that permits are flawed concerning its potential harm to an endangered bat species, streams and wetlands.
Shame about Berlin being so thoroughly bypassed, stopping at the Ice Cream Station is one of my favorite parts about using 219 to I-68 as an alternative to the Turnpike and the horrors of Breezewood whenever I'm heading to DC or thereabouts.
Will this new section still be a freeway grade facility, and how much alteration will be needed at the somorset stub end?
Quote from: wphiii on February 28, 2013, 06:04:41 PM
Shame about Berlin being so thoroughly bypassed, stopping at the Ice Cream Station is one of my favorite parts about using 219 to I-68 as an alternative to the Turnpike and the horrors of Breezewood whenever I'm heading to DC or thereabouts.
As badly as some people hate Breezewood, I can't imagine taking that curvy, crooked US 219 route as an alternative to it.
Quote from: hbelkins on February 28, 2013, 08:57:15 PM
Quote from: wphiii on February 28, 2013, 06:04:41 PM
Shame about Berlin being so thoroughly bypassed, stopping at the Ice Cream Station is one of my favorite parts about using 219 to I-68 as an alternative to the Turnpike and the horrors of Breezewood whenever I'm heading to DC or thereabouts.
As badly as some people hate Breezewood, I can't imagine taking that curvy, crooked US 219 route as an alternative to it.
Depends on whether your goal is to get from Point A to Point B as fast as possible or not. It's about 30 minutes longer (though it can be a little more if you catch the Cumberland portion of I-68 at a bad time). If time is not of the essence then it's well worth it to me to avoid Breezewood and that irritating 55 mph speed trap stretch of I-70 in PA. And it saves about $5 in tolls. I also happen to find that the towns along the way serve as infinitely more enjoyable food/stretch breaks than the Turnpike rest stops.
Quote from: hbelkins on February 28, 2013, 08:57:15 PM
As badly as some people hate Breezewood, I can't imagine taking that curvy, crooked US 219 route as an alternative to it.
My dad used to like doing that fairly often. The first time or two, that I remember, being before I-68 was I-68...
It wasn't just an alternative to Breezewood itself - which I remember my dad wanting to avoid because in addition to it simply being Breezewood, PennDOT was also doing major roadwork there as well - but we also didn't bother with the Turnpike at all, just taking PA-31 over the Laurel Ridge to other back roads to home.
Many of those trips were before we had the internet, and I had yet to become aware of the Garret Shortcut, so we always stayed on US-219 winding up north via Berlin. Last summer (the first time since 2003 I was on US-219 in Somerset Co.), I made it a point to use the Garret Shortcut, and ended up thinking "Man, I wished I knew about this shit 2 decades ago".
Quote from: Mr_Northside on March 01, 2013, 01:36:04 PM
Many of those trips were before we had the internet, and I had yet to become aware of the Garret Shortcut, so we always stayed on US-219 winding up north via Berlin. Last summer (the first time since 2003 I was on US-219 in Somerset Co.), I made it a point to use the Garret Shortcut, and ended up thinking "Man, I wished I knew about this shit 2 decades ago".
The one time I drove the route, my GPS tried to send me along what I presume is the shortcut you're talking about, but since I was driving that route for the sole purpose of clinching a portion of US 219, I opted not to use it.
Wondered how long until someone mentioned the Garrett Shortcut... it cuts about 7 miles off the trip and you avoid that awful piece of 219 between Garrett and Berlin. If you're heading south on 219, a mile after the expressway ends there is a light - turn right, that's the shortcut. It comes out on 653 on the opposite side of Garrett, which is a small town. It's a good road.
Interestingly enough, it looks from the P-G's graphic that the new alignment of 219 is going to roughly follow the Garrett Shortcut Rd.
I used the Shortcut Rd once about three years ago, when I first started needing to traverse this region on a regular basis. But through some combination of forgetfulness and actually enjoying the drive through Berlin, I haven't used it since.
Route 219 Expansion Project Gets Greenlight to Move Forward (http://www.wjactv.com/news/news/route-219-expansion-project-gets-greenlight-move-f/nXxmc/)
This new road will suck.
Signed, Breezewood
Local, State Leaders Celebrate Groundbreaking of Route 219 South Expansion (http://www.wjactv.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/-local-state-leaders-celebrate-groundbreaking-rt-219-south-expansion-349.shtml)
Money that could have been better used expanding the cattle chutes in Pittsburgh or Philadelphia.
Quote from: DBR96A on August 29, 2013, 09:23:18 AM
Money that could have been better used expanding the cattle chutes in Pittsburgh or Philadelphia.
The $350 million this project is costing would be a mere drop in the bucket to the cost of any real significant & meaningful upgrades to the "cattle chutes" in PGH or Philly.
It actually seems like a decent price for 11 miles of highway that traverses the Somerset County terrain (including what the article states will be one of the longest bridges in the state) in 2013. I suppose that could be part of the reason why it's going to take
five friggin' years to build.
I was actually thru the area today. Drove down to Ocean City (MD) from the Laurel Highlands, and opted for US-219/Garret Shortcut <-> I-68, as I wasn't gonna risk Breezewood over Labor Day Weekend. I suppose next time (who knows when that will be), they'll be some construction activity to see.
Now that the section north of Meyersdale is being constructed the process for the section south of Meyersdale is being restarted:
PLANNING STUDY RESUMES TO IMPROVE CONNECTION BETWEEN I-68 IN GARRETT COUNTY AND MEYERSDALE, PA (http://www.marylandroads.com/pages/release.aspx?newsId=2032)
And they've established a new web site:
http://www.us219md-pa.com/
The links at the top don't work since they are commented out. So far they just goto this anyway:
http://www.us219md-pa.com/img/US219_coming-soon_page.png
So the only content other than the home page so far is the newsletter:
http://www.us219md-pa.com/docs/219%20newsletterDraftV5(FINAL).pdf
Are these the ghost ramps of the high speed interchange that perhaps was never built (and now again proposed)?
http://goo.gl/maps/iN90b
No from this topo from 1982 that was the original off ramp for the existing interchange.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.historicaerials.com%2Fapi%2Fimg-server.php%3Fop%3DfetchHistoricPhotograph%26amp%3Bbbox%3D-79.1079253727908%2C39.6984518202161%2C-79.0910034214283%2C39.6815298688535%26amp%3Byear%3DT1982%26amp%3Bstamp%3Dtrue&hash=6c793d7b2aa26591018de71cd091aa17a966e81e)
One of the proposed interchanges does go at that location. Although in that alternative the mainline of US 219 looks like it would cross Alt US 40 between that ramp and the current US 219. The other proposed location for the I-68 interchange is west of the current interchange.
Is this being done in lieu of extending the I-99 down to the I-68?
QuoteIs this being done in lieu of extending the I-99 down to the I-68?
Different animal entirely.
Now it does.
Quote from: BrianP on September 16, 2014, 10:32:41 AM
Now that the section north of Meyersdale is being constructed the process for the section south of Meyersdale is being restarted:
PLANNING STUDY RESUMES TO IMPROVE CONNECTION BETWEEN I-68 IN GARRETT COUNTY AND MEYERSDALE, PA (http://www.marylandroads.com/pages/release.aspx?newsId=2032)
And they've established a new web site:
http://www.us219md-pa.com/
The links at the top don't work since they are commented out. So far they just goto this anyway:
http://www.us219md-pa.com/img/US219_coming-soon_page.png
So the only content other than the home page so far is the newsletter:
http://www.us219md-pa.com/docs/219%20newsletterDraftV5(FINAL).pdf
The planning meeting was last night, so now, there's plenty of preliminary info at the project site... http://www.us219md-pa.com/index.html
Hmm according to this (http://www.us219md-pa.com/typicalsections.html) PA will build a 60' median which could accommodate future widening of the highway to six lanes using the median. While MD is only building a 34' median.
Why would it ever need to be widened? It is lightly traveled northward as it is. That and vehicle miles traveled continues to drop nationwide.
Is there any web presence yet for the part currently under construction?
Go with the cheapest alternative. :clap:
To me, it's interesting that they could go either way as to how the trumpet alternatives would be oriented. Either anticipated traffic volumes would be very balanced fairly equally between I-68 east and west, or they'd be so small that it'd made little difference whether the heavier movement was relegated to a loop ramp or not.
I'm too lazy to look it up, but is an interchange with the PA Turnpike in the mix?
Quote from: Tom958 on September 30, 2014, 05:09:37 AM
Go with the cheapest alternative. :clap:
To me, it's interesting that they could go either way as to how the trumpet alternatives would be oriented. Either anticipated traffic volumes would be very balanced fairly equally between I-68 east and west, or they'd be so small that it'd made little difference whether the heavier movement was relegated to a loop ramp or not.
I'm too lazy to look it up, but is an interchange with the PA Turnpike in the mix?
This project doesn't go that far north; have to build 219 between Meyersdale to Garrett and up to the Turnpike before a connection can be considered...
Quote
This project doesn't go that far north; have to build 219 between Meyersdale to Garrett and up to the Turnpike before a connection can be considered...
It's already underway
http://www.wjactv.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/route-219-expansion-project-makes-major-progress-somerset-county-3595.shtml
Indeed. The Garrett Shortcut section is shown as UC on the 2015 Rand McNally, too.
Reread the thread and I saw little about a PA Turnpike connection, except this:
Quote from: ShawnP on May 23, 2013, 02:00:08 PM
This new road will suck.
Signed, Breezewood
I'm just sayin... With the potential for this route to serve both the WV-Harrisburg (and beyond) and the DC/Baltimore-Pittsburgh (and beyond) corridors, an interchange with the Turnpike seems like an obvious thing to do. And there's a tantalizing amount of open-looking land where 219 crosses the Turnpike.
QuoteWith the potential for this route to serve both the WV-Harrisburg (and beyond) and the DC/Baltimore-Pittsburgh (and beyond) corridors, an interchange with the Turnpike seems like an obvious thing to do. And there's a tantalizing amount of open-looking land where 219 crosses the Turnpike.
The complication is that there's a Turnpike service area immediately to the west of where 219 crosses over. Doesn't stop the potential for a direct interchange, but does make designing and planning such an interchange more challenging and more expensive.
Another complication is the state prison right across PA 31 from the westbound Turnpike service plaza.
Quote from: froggie on October 01, 2014, 08:52:32 AM
The complication is that there's a Turnpike service area immediately to the west of where 219 crosses over. Doesn't stop the potential for a direct interchange, but does make designing and planning such an interchange more challenging and more expensive.
Another complication is the state prison right across PA 31 from the westbound Turnpike service plaza.
This.
The service plazas are relatively rebuilt/new, so they're not gonna be going anywhere for a few decades. And any plans would have to minimize the weaving with interchange ramps & service plaza ramps. The NE quadrant of the TPK/219 crossing also has signs advertising land for a business park or something. Unless money were to be no object, I'd guess the only feasible option would be something like a double-trumpet utilizing the SE quadrant (Which would be kind of ironic since the TPK would probably be AET by the time anything would get built, and depending on how implemented, wouldn't require any plaza in between the trumpets)
Of course, I've neither heard nor read of any actual plans to do anything, which is par for the course for the TPK & PennDOT in these situations.
Be careful what you wish for, I could see PennDOT/PTC satisfying public desires for an interchange with a diamond slip ramp.
Well, considering the astronomical costs of the rest of the project, it would seem to be epic fail not to provide a connection, even with the constructability issues. Estimated costs for the I-68 to Meyersdale segment alone range from $280m to $425m: do the cheap alternative, then have $145m left for an interchange with the Turnpike. :clap:
Even a south-to-east connection would be better than nothing.
I think this would be a fun thing for our interchange redesign bunnies to have a go at, if they haven't already. :wave:
EDIT: This is interesting: The bridges carrying US 219 over the Turnpike (https://www.google.com/maps/@39.9975975,-79.0381407,3a,75y,317.71h,91.98t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sJik6MxEwy6PhzmNQ5BBntQ!2e0) have enough room for another lane westbound, but not eastbound. Wassup with that? They also appear to have enough room for single lane roadways outboard of the mainline, between the end bents and the abutments. Maybe they could cram six lanes under the existing main span and have one-lane CD's connecting a trumpet to the service plaza. Or, they could replace the bridges and do a full-standard mainline plus either two-lane CD's or auxiliary lanes.
Quote from: Tom958 on October 02, 2014, 05:42:47 AM
Well, considering the astronomical costs of the rest of the project, it would seem to be epic fail not to provide a connection, even with the constructability issues. Estimated costs for the I-68 to Meyersdale segment alone range from $280m to $425m: do the cheap alternative, then have $145m left for an interchange with the Turnpike. :clap:
Even a south-to-east connection would be better than nothing.
I think this would be a fun thing for our interchange redesign bunnies to have a go at, if they haven't already. :wave:
EDIT: This is interesting: The bridges carrying US 219 over the Turnpike (https://www.google.com/maps/@39.9975975,-79.0381407,3a,75y,317.71h,91.98t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sJik6MxEwy6PhzmNQ5BBntQ!2e0) have enough room for another lane westbound, but not eastbound. Wassup with that? They also appear to have enough room for single lane roadways outboard of the mainline, between the end bents and the abutments. Maybe they could cram six lanes under the existing main span and have one-lane CD's connecting a trumpet to the service plaza. Or, they could replace the bridges and do a full-standard mainline plus either two-lane CD's or auxiliary lanes.
The Turnpike lanes aren't centered under the overpasses. If the overpasses remain, then the median barrier on the Turnpike after a six-lane widening would be located where the existing westbound yellow line is, and the middle westbound lane would be located about where the existing westbound exterior shoulder is.
The distance between the piers of each overpass is approximately 110', which is enough room for a six-lane highway with full 12' exterior shoulders, but only 4' interior shoulders. However, that segment of U.S. 219 was designed in the late 1960s and built in the early 1970s, so maybe AASHTO standards didn't require full 12' interior shoulders on six-lane highways at the time. It might not even matter, though, because those overpasses are over 40 years old, so they're getting close to the ends of their engineered lifespans anyway.
I bet those overpasses will be replaced if the segment of the Turnpike under them is eventually widened to six lanes. Even if not, the worst-case scenario is that the Turnpike would briefly squeeze the interior shoulders down to 4' as it passes under. As for a direct interchange, I bet one will eventually be built in the southeastern quadrant of the junction of the two highways.
Quote from: Gnutella on October 03, 2014, 03:41:16 PM
The Turnpike lanes aren't centered under the overpasses. If the overpasses remain, then the median barrier on the Turnpike after a six-lane widening would be located where the existing westbound yellow line is, and the middle westbound lane would be located about where the existing westbound exterior shoulder is.
The distance between the piers of each overpass is approximately 110', which is enough room for a six-lane highway with full 12' exterior shoulders, but only 4' interior shoulders. However, that segment of U.S. 219 was designed in the late 1960s and built in the early 1970s, so maybe AASHTO standards didn't require full 12' interior shoulders on six-lane highways at the time. It might not even matter, though, because those overpasses are over 40 years old, so they're getting close to the ends of their engineered lifespans anyway.
I bet those overpasses will be replaced if the segment of the Turnpike under them is eventually widened to six lanes. Even if not, the worst-case scenario is that the Turnpike would briefly squeeze the interior shoulders down to 4' as it passes under. As for a direct interchange, I bet one will eventually be built in the southeastern quadrant of the junction of the two highways.
Thanks for that, Gnutella! :clap:
Now, back to the issue: Completion of the 219 freeway to I-68 will change traffic patterns whether or not a connection is built. Surely DC-Pittsburgh travelers would endure a couple of miles of PA 281 and friends to save, what, $5 in tolls? Especially since they'd miss Breezewood by doing so. From what I've gathered, the case would be less compelling for the Morgantown-Harrisburg axis, since the non-freeway portion of US 220 is pretty decent and travelers who went that way instead of using 219 would save a significant amount in tolls.
The next thing to look at is the interests of the PTC. They'd like to keep I-70 traffic on the current I-70, and they'll likely be resistant to spending a lot of money on a project that'll reduce their cash flow. Conversely, a connection for the Morgantown-Harrisburg axis would likely entice some travelers to use what would be an all-freeway/Turnpike route, even if it cost more in tolls, especially since a direct connection would save five miles or so compared to backtracking though Somerset.
Or so says my common sense. :spin: I wonder what an actual traffic study would find, keeping in mind my earlier observation that projected traffic volumes at I-68 and US 219 are apparently small enough to be accommodated on a loop ramp.
Quote from: The service plazas are relatively rebuilt/new, so they're not gonna be going anywhere for a few decades. And any plans would have to minimize the weaving with interchange ramps & service plaza ramps. The NE quadrant of the TPK/219 crossing also has signs advertising land for a business park or something. Unless money were to be no object, I'd guess the only feasible option would be something like a double-trumpet utilizing the SE quadrant (Which would be kind of ironic since the TPK would probably be AET by the time anything would get built, and depending on how implemented, wouldn't require any plaza in between the trumpets)
That would certainly be the most straightforward option. And it would serve all movements, unlike...
Tom958, who has never set foot in Pennsylvania, suggests:
1. A connection for the Morgantown-Harrisburg axis via a loop ramp in the NW quadrant and a direct ramp in the SE. Not good to add an accel lane to a 40 year old bridge, though. :no:
2. Someday, if and when traffic problems become impossible to ignore, a connection for the DC-Pittsburgh axis via
a. A loop ramp in the NE quadrant, plus a CD along the westbound Turnpike to serve it and the previously mentioned loop ramp. The CD could rejoin the Turnpike by skirting the outside margin of the service area, requiring an overpass for local access to the service area. Obviously, this would require replacement of the 219 bridges over the Turnpike.
b. A braided direct ramp from the Turnpike eastbound to 219 southbound, starting opposite the service plaza buildings and bridging over the onramp from the service plaza, which would have to be relocated to the east.
Or they could just widen Mt Pleasant avenue to 4 lanes as an interim solution
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on October 03, 2014, 06:55:14 PM
Or they could just widen Mt Pleasant avenue to 4 lanes as an interim solution
But where's the fun in that? :bigass:
Leaders rev up for final stage of Route 219 South (http://www.tribdem.com/news/article_76e3b054-439f-11e4-a9f2-175a13d21b8c.html)
The way page 2 of this article makes it sound, Maryland seems more financially determined/capable of getting actual work done on the Meyersdale/I-68 section than PA. (And the re-established web page for the project has a section showing maps of possible temporary "tie-ins" should all the work not be done at once)
Quote from: Sherman Cahal on September 16, 2014, 04:49:08 PM
Are these the ghost ramps of the high speed interchange that perhaps was never built (and now again proposed)?
http://goo.gl/maps/iN90b
Has to be. The grade for the 219 south to 68 east ramp is obviously raised (check street view). The layout is very clear on the 1979 aerial/topo hybrid (22 MB (http://ims.er.usgs.gov/gda_services/download?item_id=5365676)).
Here are the relevant right-of-way plats from south to north, even showing ramp configurations:
43013 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-975)
43014 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-974)
43015 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-991)
43016 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-973)
43017 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-972)
43024 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-990)
43025 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-989)
43026 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-961)
43027 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-962)
43028 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-992)
43029 (http://guide.mdsa.net/series.cfm?action=viewDetails&ID=C2369-993)
Quote from: Mr_Northside on October 07, 2014, 09:24:39 PM
Leaders rev up for final stage of Route 219 South (http://www.tribdem.com/news/article_76e3b054-439f-11e4-a9f2-175a13d21b8c.html)
The way page 2 of this article makes it sound, Maryland seems more financially determined/capable of getting actual work done on the Meyersdale/I-68 section than PA. (And the re-established web page for the project has a section showing maps of possible temporary "tie-ins" should all the work not be done at once)
Well, yeah. PA would do the fiscal heavy lifting and endure most of the impacts, while MD would receive substantial benefit.
Maybe I'm overreacting, but I'd like to think that somewhere there's an analysis of the potential for for diversion of I-70 traffic to the US 219-I-68 corridor. Right now, according to Google Maps, the latter route (using the Garrett Shortcut) is only eight miles and eighteen minutes longer than I-70 and avoids $4.49 in tolls ($6.45 for those who don't use EZPass). Completion of the Meyersdale-Somerset section will further shorten the travel time. Beyond that, the 219-68 route will likely become more appealing when construction begins at the Allegheny Tunnel and/or six-laning the Turnpike.
It isn't often that a highway project has such potential for rearranging a significant portion of a region's highway network, and the ramifications fascinate me.
Quote from: Tom958 on October 11, 2014, 07:07:07 AM
Maybe I'm overreacting, but I'd like to think that somewhere there's an analysis of the potential for for diversion of I-70 traffic to the US 219-I-68 corridor. Right now, according to Google Maps, the latter route (using the Garrett Shortcut) is only eight miles and eighteen minutes longer than I-70 and avoids $4.49 in tolls ($6.45 for those who don't use EZPass). Completion of the Meyersdale-Somerset section will further shorten the travel time. Beyond that, the 219-68 route will likely become more appealing when construction begins at the Allegheny Tunnel and/or six-laning the Turnpike.
I hope I-68 doesn't get too popular, I like how empty it is now :)
Regarding the 219 / Turnpike interchange, what is the "official"/preferred current connection routing? It seems from GSV that the Turnpike is signed on 219 at the exit about 2 miles north of Somerset, routing people via PA 601. Meanwhile, it appears if you're coming from the Turnpike, signage directs you through Somerset to 219 via PA 281. It would seem that this wouldn't be preferable to Somerset for the truck traffic in that direction. Was there possible intention that the long exit ramp/roadway from 219 to 601 be possibly extended across 601 to the SW to connect to the Turnpike, taking advantage of a less developed area (although a much longer distance, and possible other significant constraints)?
Quote from: wphiii on October 13, 2014, 04:48:18 PMI hope I-68 doesn't get too popular, I like how empty it is now :)
Judging from the discussion in the I-68 thread, maybe you'll get your wish. :hmmm:
Quote from: Roadrunner75Regarding the 219 / Turnpike interchange, what is the "official"/preferred current connection routing? It seems from GSV that the Turnpike is signed on 219 at the exit about 2 miles north of Somerset, routing people via PA 601. Meanwhile, it appears if you're coming from the Turnpike, signage directs you through Somerset to 219 via PA 281. It would seem that this wouldn't be preferable to Somerset for the truck traffic in that direction.
And, for the DC-Pittsburgh axis, the shortest route would be via former US 219, which has no route number now except for a bicycle route. :-o
QuoteWas there possible intention that the long exit ramp/roadway from 219 to 601 be possibly extended across 601 to the SW to connect to the Turnpike, taking advantage of a less developed area (although a much longer distance, and possible other significant constraints)?
I didn't notice that, but it seems like a credible theory, especially since the signs on US 219 mention only the Turnpike and its Interstate routes and control cities, not PA 601, Somerset or any other local town (there's a brown supplemental sign for "Somerset Historical Center," though the PA 281 interchange is the one that's signed as being for Somerset).
That connection would be a shortcut for what little traffic goes between the Turnpike westward and 219 northward, too. Maybe the idea will be resurrected at some point. Who knows? Maybe they'll even eliminate the at-grade intersection at PA 601, as un-Pennsylvania as that'd be.
Next item: Breezewood. Without knowing, I'd guess that through traffic on the Turnpike is reluctant to patronize the businesses at Breezewood because connecting from Breezewood to the Turnpike westward requires backtracking for nearly two miles on the former Turnpike roadway. Therefore, I suspect that Breezewood's businesses rely mainly on I-70 traffic. If I-70 traffic starts diverting to 68-219 instead, they'll suffer mightily. However, if the I-70-Turnpike connection was reconstructed in in such a way as to allow access from the Turnpike to the I-70-Breezewood connection instead of to the former Turnpike roadway, then it would shorten the backtracking by a mile or so, and Turnpike traffic might be more inclined to make a stop at Breezewood.
We had to destroy Breezewood in order to save it. :bigass:
OTOH, maybe spending $100m or more to improve I-70 after much of the traffic has decamped for another route isn't such a great plan. :spin:
In case anyone finds it useful, I made this sophisticated graphic illustrating the corridor, with Breezewood marked appropriately:
Quote from: Tom958 on October 11, 2014, 07:07:07 AM
Quote from: Mr_Northside on October 07, 2014, 09:24:39 PM
Leaders rev up for final stage of Route 219 South (http://www.tribdem.com/news/article_76e3b054-439f-11e4-a9f2-175a13d21b8c.html)
The way page 2 of this article makes it sound, Maryland seems more financially determined/capable of getting actual work done on the Meyersdale/I-68 section than PA. (And the re-established web page for the project has a section showing maps of possible temporary "tie-ins" should all the work not be done at once)
Well, yeah. PA would do the fiscal heavy lifting and endure most of the impacts, while MD would receive substantial benefit.
Maybe I'm overreacting, but I'd like to think that somewhere there's an analysis of the potential for for diversion of I-70 traffic to the US 219-I-68 corridor. Right now, according to Google Maps, the latter route (using the Garrett Shortcut) is only eight miles and eighteen minutes longer than I-70 and avoids $4.49 in tolls ($6.45 for those who don't use EZPass). Completion of the Meyersdale-Somerset section will further shorten the travel time. Beyond that, the 219-68 route will likely become more appealing when construction begins at the Allegheny Tunnel and/or six-laning the Turnpike.
It isn't often that a highway project has such potential for rearranging a significant portion of a region's highway network, and the ramifications fascinate me.
I know I'm digging up a couple month old thread, but here goes...
Speaking as a frequent I-68 traveler and Morgantown resident, I don't think this new US 219 routing is really going to result in much of a shift in routings on a network basis. For Morgantown-Somerset, I-68/WV 26/PA 281 is currently the preferred routing. The new US 219 freeway will still be 10-12 miles longer, but given they'll have a better alignment and will allow driving at 65mph, I could see them becoming preferred or at least competitive.
For Morgantown-Harrisburg, I-68/I-70/I-81 is the preferred routing now. US 219 to the PA Turnpike wouldn't offer any real advantages and you'd have to pay tolls.
For Pittsburgh-DC traffic, I would expect diversion to a US 219/I-68 routing to be small. I-68 has a many more mountain crossings. Somerset and Garrett Counties get a lot of snow, and I-68 is prone to very dense fog from Keysers Ridge to Frostburg pretty much any time of the year. Especially without a direct Turnpike interchange, I think most people are probably going to just figure that US 219 isn't worth the hassle.
FWIW, Back from 1985-1996, I made frequent trips from DC to Pittsburgh, once 68 was finished east of Cumberland, I switched from 270-70-70/76, off at PA8 to a 270-70-68-40-43-70-79 off at Mt Nebo Rd route. it took EXACTLY t same amount of time, had only the toll on 43, and was sooooo much less stressful than the PA Pike. Now that you got 43 down into Uniontown, I bet it is easier still. AND I bet, with still at only 4 lanes from Somerset to New Stanton, the PA pike is significantly worse.
Quote from: Bitmapped on March 22, 2015, 10:51:12 AM
....
For Pittsburgh-DC traffic, I would expect diversion to a US 219/I-68 routing to be small. I-68 has a many more mountain crossings. Somerset and Garrett Counties get a lot of snow, and I-68 is prone to very dense fog from Keysers Ridge to Frostburg pretty much any time of the year. Especially without a direct Turnpike interchange, I think most people are probably going to just figure that US 219 isn't worth the hassle.
I suspect "most people" won't even know the option exists since it's not how they've gone for however many years. It's always interesting when the Washington Post's Dr. Gridlock column features alternates to the I-95/NJ Turnpike route to New York and people write in to say they had no idea you could go through Pennsylvania. Same principle would apply here.
Is there any type of progress site for the Somerset to Meyersdale portion?
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on March 22, 2015, 06:18:37 PM
Is there any type of progress site for the Somerset to Meyersdale portion?
I don't know of any progress site, but this video (http://www.dailyamerican.com/entertainment/videos/aerial-tour-of-route/video_78544db0-a248-11e4-9057-97420a8ef3aa.html) was released back in January. It's an aerial view of the construction zone starting at the south end (just north of Meyersdale) moving north. (Credit: Joseph B. Fey Co., as found on the (Somerset) Daily American website.)
continental1.org (http://continental1.org) has links to press reports on the project. It is an advocacy page, so problems and delays would not necessarily be reported.
I do know that the structures contract has been awarded.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on March 23, 2015, 11:21:49 AM
I do know that the structures contract has been awarded.
From the press release (http://www.dot.state.pa.us/penndot/districts/district9.nsf/76320b0b27c6ca428525694c003a012a/7a452a0ea9ea79ac85257d7b0068ffcb?OpenDocument) the real work should soon be starting up.
QuoteConstruction on this phase of the contract is anticipated to begin with tree cutting over the winter months followed by the main construction activities in Spring 2015.
Some pictures, though most are ~1 year old now. (I don't think I saw this posted before)
http://greatercc.org/assets/SR-6219-020-Update.pdf (http://greatercc.org/assets/SR-6219-020-Update.pdf)
If the expressway ever reaches I-68, it would more than make up for the failure to extend I-99 south to Cumberland!
I doubt there are plans to extend the 219 freeway south of Meyersdale or even north of Ebensburg. Correct me if I'm wrong, as I've never been anywhere near those places.
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on April 30, 2015, 04:56:27 PM
I doubt there are plans to extend the 219 freeway south of Meyersdale or even north of Ebensburg. Correct me if I'm wrong, as I've never been anywhere near those places.
There aren't actual concrete plans in place to do that as of right now, but the Continental 1 folks (and others, I'm sure) are definitely lobbying hard for it.
Quote from: wphiii on April 30, 2015, 05:59:32 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on April 30, 2015, 04:56:27 PM
I doubt there are plans to extend the 219 freeway south of Meyersdale or even north of Ebensburg. Correct me if I'm wrong, as I've never been anywhere near those places.
There aren't actual concrete plans in place to do that as of right now, but the Continental 1 folks (and others, I'm sure) are definitely lobbying hard for it.
North of Ebensburg, no, but south of Meyersdale, I think this qualifies as plans (http://www.us219md-pa.com).
Definitely being studied again. But I'd stop short of calling them actual plans unless they're funded (my guess from the project website is "no").
When I worked in the PennDOT District 6 office, we would refer to projects that were funded only to the study or initial design phase as plans. As in, "We have plans to build a facility paralleling route XX." A project still in location studies would be said to be "in early planning."
But semantics can come and go, and it's certain that the informal terminology that transportation agencies use internally changes from state to state, so I suppose you can call them plans or intentions, or anything else you like, no worries. If the project isn't in at least the initial design phase, you can certainly make the case that there aren't really "plans."
As to what step in the process this particular project is funded to (location study, initial design, etc.), the one to ask is District 9's CRC (Community Relations Coordinator), Tara Callahan-Henry. She can be reached at 814-696-7101.
Quote from: qguy on April 30, 2015, 06:31:38 PM
Quote from: wphiii on April 30, 2015, 05:59:32 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on April 30, 2015, 04:56:27 PM
I doubt there are plans to extend the 219 freeway south of Meyersdale or even north of Ebensburg. Correct me if I'm wrong, as I've never been anywhere near those places.
There aren't actual concrete plans in place to do that as of right now, but the Continental 1 folks (and others, I'm sure) are definitely lobbying hard for it.
North of Ebensburg, no, but south of Meyersdale, I think this qualifies as plans (http://www.us219md-pa.com).
Well, at least it
would complete the expressway all the way to I-68.
According to the Joseph B. Fay Company facebook page, the bridge construction phase has begun.
See more - including a picture - here: https://www.facebook.com/140742682673246/photos/a.143853109028870.39165.140742682673246/835975806483260/?type=1&permPage=1 (https://www.facebook.com/140742682673246/photos/a.143853109028870.39165.140742682673246/835975806483260/?type=1&permPage=1)
They've been widening the existing US 219 bridges at the northern end of the Meyersdale bypass for months.
It looks like Maryland is going to do it's part of this route.
QuoteFollowing through on his campaign pledge to provide funding for highways and state-owned local roads, Governor Larry Hogan today announced $1.97 billion for highways and bridges from Western Maryland to the Eastern Shore. The priority projects, which will get underway by 2018...
QuoteUS 219 - Upgrading US 219 north of I-68 and building a new interchange at I-68 (Garrett County's #1 priority);
http://www.mdot.maryland.gov/News/Releases2015/2015June25_Hogan_Announces_Nearly_2Billion_for_Roads.html
I lived in MD from 1985-91, and dang what a smart list. Maybe next cycle they can find a way to hook up with VA and WV to complete the missing link in US 340.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on July 17, 2015, 10:06:08 PM
I lived in MD from 1985-91, and dang what a smart list. Maybe next cycle they can find a way to hook up with VA and WV to complete the missing link in US 340.
You should keep track of what projects they actually do and what ones slip. You'd be amazed with how many projects are announced with great fanfare and then are delayed, delayed, delayed.
Took I-68 & US-219 on the way back from Chincoteage, VA this last weekend. The pics aren't great, but this is what is going on....
Approaching the north end of the Meyersdale bypass, going under the Great Allegheny Passage, where the construction begins....
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi778.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy68%2Fmr__northside%2F219-1_zpseq0l9pa8.jpg&hash=26964d150c9fbd40e5269bc70ea3d15cc9fdd6b9)
The barrier where traffic gets routed 2-way across the NB bridge over Bus/Old US-219.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi778.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy68%2Fmr__northside%2F219-2_zpsdajyqdka.jpg&hash=f4c574b23e5ad4689ee0a5c65d37834241588a2c)
Crossing over the widened bridge (with some new lights)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi778.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy68%2Fmr__northside%2F219-3_zpsuyrazqsb.jpg&hash=4d9c42a0023e5dfcb09dcd4a79947ab5472f14d7)
It was hard to tell while driving, but this looks to utilize the new NB side off-ramp to Bus-219. Also neat supersize keystone shields for the 4-digit state routes put up for the construction.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi778.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy68%2Fmr__northside%2F219-4_zpsawjbnyb5.jpg&hash=ac8e8bcb1e4027d857416ef4d45a75f8721e09b0)
From current US-219 north of Garrett; the construction of the piers to cross over the valley the current road is in. I think there is an article posted saying this will be the highest crossing in Somerset County when done.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi778.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy68%2Fmr__northside%2F219-5_zpsqmuzbehp.jpg&hash=1bd3244faaf6f9039d63e648361816d498a69733)
I traversed up Crossroad School Rd to get this shot of the embankment & earthwork north of where the new highway crosses the valley (with the one pier visible in the lower right corner).
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi778.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy68%2Fmr__northside%2F219-6_zpswh4a09jr.jpg&hash=9da040c42f36e88444d589ab443bae7c5652ca3a)
A look at where 219 will start bridging the valley, starting with crossing Crossroad School Rd.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi778.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy68%2Fmr__northside%2F219-7_zpsxr8woc8g.jpg&hash=c0415bab755029c38e3c4e2154bb0342e12b05bb)
Further north, just west of the intersection with Garrett Shortcut Rd.... The overpasses over E. Mud Pike look built (with a lot more needed done before there's road on either side of them). Last I saw any plans, there will be an interchange here.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi778.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy68%2Fmr__northside%2F219-8_zpswwsg26oe.jpg&hash=3d14cdcfb624adfcb7ce05ab93eba16a91207698)
From the spot in the prior picture, looking south at some of the earthwork.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi778.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fyy68%2Fmr__northside%2F219-9_zpsjaozxpej.jpg&hash=08476f120441e44e0b136887054155014d9e0311)
I wanted to get a pic of the earthwork where Garrett Shortcut Rd will go under the future highway, and the clearing at the stub end of the current freeway near Somerset, but it didn't work out that way. I wanted to get more in general, but after all the driving I had already done back from the beach, this was about all I had left in me (since I still had to make it the rest of the way to Pittsburgh.)
Thanks! I enjoyed the photos and the narrative. :clap:
Cool pics! I'd like to get out that way sometime to see that for myself, but that isn't happening any time soon
Last summer when I was visiting friends and family in Pittsburgh, I decided to take a drive down to see Mount Davis and Deer Valley, and remembering how crazy the drive was on U.S. 219, especially between Berlin and Garrett. It's good to see U.S. 219 being moved onto a modern alignment, as opposed to the winding back road it's currently on. It'll probably take 15-20 minutes off the drive down that way the next time I'm there.
When is this "missing link" expected to open?
I've read Fall of 2018.
Been just over a year since I was in the area and saw some of the construction. Will be very nice when finished :-)
Went thru the area again on the way back from Ocean City yesterday.... In the last 3 weeks they shifted the traffic to use the NB off-ramp to old 219, then going under the bridges at the northern end of the Meyersdale bypass (opposing traffic uses the same ramp area in a two-way traffic situation).
Didn't get any pics this time - it looks like a little more was excavated in that area, but I didn't notice much of anything else new north of there along the Garrett Shortcut.
Probably won't be in the area again until next summer - unless I decide to pull the trigger and haul a bicycle out to Meyersdale to bike a stretch of the Great Allegheny Passage.
What's the point of finishing/extending the US 219 freeway? It's done between the PA Turnpike and north of Ebensburg, but other than that, I'd say just extend it southward to Grantsville MD and northward to Northern Cambria PA.
Quote from: noelbotevera on September 13, 2015, 02:57:28 PM
What's the point of finishing/extending the US 219 freeway? It's done between the PA Turnpike and north of Ebensburg, but other than that, I'd say just extend it southward to Grantsville MD and northward to Northern Cambria PA.
Two words: Continental One.
Quote from: noelbotevera on September 13, 2015, 02:57:28 PM
What's the point of finishing/extending the US 219 freeway? It's done between the PA Turnpike and north of Ebensburg, but other than that, I'd say just extend it southward to Grantsville MD and northward to Northern Cambria PA.
That's most likely all that's ever going to get done.... and even that's probably iffy (especially extending northerly of Ebensburg). I wouldn't be surprised to see sections between I-80 & I-68 (that aren't already upgraded) freeway-ized in a piecemeal fashion over the next couple of decades, but I don't ever expect to see anything like that north of I-80 or south of 68 - At least not in my lifetime.
Quote from: Mr_Northside on September 14, 2015, 06:16:24 PM
Quote from: noelbotevera on September 13, 2015, 02:57:28 PM
What's the point of finishing/extending the US 219 freeway? It's done between the PA Turnpike and north of Ebensburg, but other than that, I'd say just extend it southward to Grantsville MD and northward to Northern Cambria PA.
That's most likely all that's ever going to get done.... and even that's probably iffy (especially extending northerly of Ebensburg). I wouldn't be surprised to see sections between I-80 & I-68 (that aren't already upgraded) freeway-ized in a piecemeal fashion over the next couple of decades, but I don't ever expect to see anything like that north of I-80 or south of 68 - At least not in my lifetime.
I'd say from truncate the freeway at Ebensburg, then extend the freeway south to Grantsville, then have a direct shot with I-76/PA Turnpike.
Quote from: Henry on September 14, 2015, 11:33:23 AM
Quote from: noelbotevera on September 13, 2015, 02:57:28 PM
What's the point of finishing/extending the US 219 freeway? It's done between the PA Turnpike and north of Ebensburg, but other than that, I'd say just extend it southward to Grantsville MD and northward to Northern Cambria PA.
Two words: Continental One.
I really doubt that. Those types of initiatives along with "corridor initiatives" have, at least, up here in NY, faded from their former glory (say half-a-decade or more ago when everyone was jumping into the multi-state corridor game as means to get paid trips out of the office :D).
Quote from: Mr_Northside on September 14, 2015, 06:16:24 PM
Quote from: noelbotevera on September 13, 2015, 02:57:28 PM
What's the point of finishing/extending the US 219 freeway? It's done between the PA Turnpike and north of Ebensburg, but other than that, I'd say just extend it southward to Grantsville MD and northward to Northern Cambria PA.
That's most likely all that's ever going to get done.... and even that's probably iffy (especially extending northerly of Ebensburg). I wouldn't be surprised to see sections between I-80 & I-68 (that aren't already upgraded) freeway-ized in a piecemeal fashion over the next couple of decades, but I don't ever expect to see anything like that north of I-80 or south of 68 - At least not in my lifetime.
There's been some mention of improving
US 220 south of Cumberland to connect with Corridor H. Best I remember, 219 between I-68 and Oakland isn't that bad of a road.
Quote from: Henry on September 14, 2015, 11:33:23 AM
Quote from: noelbotevera on September 13, 2015, 02:57:28 PM
What's the point of finishing/extending the US 219 freeway? It's done between the PA Turnpike and north of Ebensburg, but other than that, I'd say just extend it southward to Grantsville MD and northward to Northern Cambria PA.
Two words: Continental One.
Does it make any difference that the section north Ebensburg was never part of the ADHS?
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5819/21446035635_bc2c15e3d4_o.png)
Quote from: briantroutman on September 15, 2015, 03:18:52 PM
Quote from: Henry on September 14, 2015, 11:33:23 AM
Quote from: noelbotevera on September 13, 2015, 02:57:28 PM
What's the point of finishing/extending the US 219 freeway? It's done between the PA Turnpike and north of Ebensburg, but other than that, I'd say just extend it southward to Grantsville MD and northward to Northern Cambria PA.
Two words: Continental One.
Does it make any difference that the section north Ebensburg was never part of the ADHS?
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5819/21446035635_bc2c15e3d4_o.png)
The section north of Ebensburg is pointless - it's a freeway to nowhere north of Ebensburg all the way to the NY state line. Even as a two laner. There are stubs that hint that they will extend the freeway...
Quote from: briantroutman on September 15, 2015, 03:18:52 PM
Does it make any difference that the section north Ebensburg was never part of the ADHS?
I'd say yes, since at least the ADHS had a specific federal fund source set aside to assist with its funding.
There was actually a regional office of NYSDOT that would program their projects with Appalachian funding in NYSDOT's system to hide them from the NYSDOT Main Office, which focused on funding in the more major fund sources. :D Of course, when it came time to actually do the project, they'd have to show their real hand. :D
At the very least, I think U.S. 219 between Ebensburg and Bradford should be upgraded to a four-lane arterial highway, similar to U.S. 22 between Pittsburgh and Altoona.
I just wish that any of the mapping sites could hey some updated imagery
Quote from: Gnutella on September 15, 2015, 07:55:13 PM
At the very least, I think U.S. 219 between Ebensburg and Bradford should be upgraded to a four-lane arterial highway, similar to U.S. 22 between Pittsburgh and Altoona.
That would probably end up being perfectly fine... though I still doubt they'd get much momentum to upgrade north of I-80, and especially thru the Allegheny National Forest.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on September 15, 2015, 09:32:10 PM
I just wish that any of the mapping sites could hey some updated imagery
Hopefully we'll get a 2016 update with the NAIP imagery in PA.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on September 15, 2015, 09:32:10 PM
I just wish that any of the mapping sites could hey some updated imagery
Google Maps finally showing updated aerial shots (if you zoom in close enough) of road-bed clearings and construction from the north end of the Meyersdale Bypass to east of Garrett, then parallel to the GSR up to the end stub south of the Pa Turnpike near Somerset. Would like to see this kind of progress here in NYS between Springville/Peters Rd. and Salamanca...
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on September 16, 2015, 08:25:34 PM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on September 15, 2015, 09:32:10 PM
I just wish that any of the mapping sites could hey some updated imagery
Hopefully we'll get a 2016 update with the NAIP imagery in PA.
NAIP has updated their imagery for PA to 2015. Haven't checked this area out yet, but assume we would see some progress on this.
US 219 PUBLIC WORKSHOP SCHEDULED FOR JANUARY 6 IN GRANTSVILLE, GARRETT COUNTY
QuoteThe Maryland Department of Transportation's State Highway Administration SHA) is hosting an informational public workshop in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The agencies will introduce the US 219 Planning and Environment Linkages Study to obtain feedback on the vision, goals and study alignments.
http://www.marylandroads.com/pages/release.aspx?newsId=2439
Since it looks like Maryland will build their section before PennDOT builds theirs I think alignment AE has an advantage since that alternative crosses the current route near the state line. Granted there are many other considerations to picking an alternative.
Well, if all they want to do is just extend it south to I-68 in Grantsville, that's fine. North is just crazy talk.
Quote from: MikeSantNY78 on December 29, 2015, 06:38:29 PM
Would like to see this kind of progress here in NYS between Springville/Peters Rd. and Salamanca...
*guffaws*That is so far off the table that I'd almost use the word "never" to describe the situation.
"Progress" must mean "let her rip" through the Allegany Indian Reservation. It was (rightfully) a pain to deal with the reservation when NY 17 was built circa 1990-1995, and their disputes, as part of Seneca Nation, have merit. US 219 is also not a woefully congested or accident prone - and US 219 is hardly a through route.
Quote from: Rothman on December 30, 2015, 01:28:23 PM
Quote from: MikeSantNY78 on December 29, 2015, 06:38:29 PM
Would like to see this kind of progress here in NYS between Springville/Peters Rd. and Salamanca...
*guffaws*
That is so far off the table that I'd almost use the word "never" to describe the situation.
Um...yeah. It's only particularly bad when Ellicottville blocks off US 219 for a festival (which happens way too often). The only thing that's really needed is an Ellicottville bypass because that is where all of the issues are (and a lot of those could be fixed by not letting Ellicottville close anything down).
And I don't blame the Senecas. New York hasn't been too keen about following treaties and the agreements they made. Such as how the only casinos were supposed to be run by Native Americans.
How can a town close down a federal route? That's prohibited in a lot of states where no truck route is provided around the closure.
Because US routes aren't really Federal routes (unless you think like Carl Rogers). They're state routes. If the state DOT approves the closure, or if the town has maintenance jurisdiction to begin with (as is the case on some routes in at least 4 states and likely more), then that's it.
Quote from: froggie on December 31, 2015, 05:59:53 AM
Because US routes aren't really Federal routes (unless you think like Carl Rogers). They're state routes. If the state DOT approves the closure, or if the town has maintenance jurisdiction to begin with (as is the case on some routes in at least 4 states and likely more), then that's it.
NYSDOT Region 5 approves closures quite often. Too often for my liking, actually.
Quote from: Sherman Cahal on December 31, 2015, 01:37:10 AM
How can a town close down a federal route? That's prohibited in a lot of states where no truck route is provided around the closure.
Froggie beat me to the Carl Rogers reference, but it happens in a lot of places. In West Liberty, Ky., US 460 gets shut down for the annual Sorghum Festival.
Interestingly enough, KYTC changed its policy a couple of years ago to no longer require an encroachment permit to close a state-maintained road for a festival or other event.
Quote from: Hoss6884 on February 06, 2016, 12:23:01 PM
Small bump...
Has there been anything published in terms of what the current two-lane alignment of US 219 will be designated once the expressway opens?
I haven't seen anything about that... Although PA 601 could be extended south on that alignment, my guess is that it becomes quadrant route SR 6219 or SR 2219.
Quote from: dave19 on February 06, 2016, 02:39:33 PM
Quote from: Hoss6884 on February 06, 2016, 12:23:01 PM
Small bump...
Has there been anything published in terms of what the current two-lane alignment of US 219 will be designated once the expressway opens?
Since the new alignment is significantly different than the older one (access to Berlin or not), an extension of PA 601 or another traffic route would probably make the most sense.
I haven't seen anything about that... Although PA 601 could be extended south on that alignment, my guess is that it becomes quadrant route SR 6219 or SR 2219.
I'm in total agreement with you on that. PA 653 could be extended from Garrett up to Berlin, then down Main Street to terminate at PA 160. From Somerset to Berlin, they could extend PA 601 along that alignment. (Or maybe a different number if they don't want two interchanges with 601 in the same county.) That's what I'd do, anyway.
But having lived in PA for most of my life, I still think that they'll do the quadrant number instead.
Bids Announced for the Route 219 Paving Contract from Somerset to Meyersdale
http://www.penndot.gov/RegionalOffices/district-9/Pages/details.aspx?newsid=55#.VtBbCXco7mI
Here's (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BYRxTjKoXQ) an aerial video showing the progress along the entire construction corridor as of late March. It appears that all but two overpasses had been constructed by then, so most of the remaining work at this point will involve the actual highway.
Thanks for posting that video.
It looks like the aerial imagery for this project has been updated in Google Maps. The road looks to be nearing completion. From what I found there hasn't been an update to the road opening until 2018. I wonder if the road could open this fall.
Alternative 4 was chosen for the Maryland portion of US 219 north of I-68:
http://www.us219northmd.com/
Which I don't like that one since it doesn't construct a new interchange at I-68. It won't even widen the bridge over I-68 or make a two lane roundabout where the new road meets the interchange. (ok one quarter of it is two lanes, but not the quarter that should have it) Maryland is throwing PA the cheapest bone it can which is better than nothing but disappointing.
Quote from: BrianP on May 22, 2017, 05:14:36 PM
It looks like the aerial imagery for this project has been updated in Google Maps. The road looks to be nearing completion. From what I found there hasn't been an update to the road opening until 2018. I wonder if the road could open this fall.
Alternative 4 was chosen for the Maryland portion of US 219 north of I-68:
http://www.us219northmd.com/
Which I don't like that one since it doesn't construct a new interchange at I-68. It won't even widen the bridge over I-68 or make a two lane roundabout where the new road meets the interchange. (ok one quarter of it is two lanes, but not the quarter that should have it) Maryland is throwing PA the cheapest bone it can which is better than nothing but disappointing.
The project website doesn't whether it would be 4 lanes or whether it goes all the way to PA.
If it was built with 2 lanes on a 4-lane R/W like was the relocated US-220 at Cumberland, then it could make sense to initially have a diamond interchange with I-68.
The plans show a brief 4 lane highway that ends between US Alt 40 and the state line. The rest of the road to the state line will be completed when PA does their part.
http://www.us219northmd.com/docs/US%20219_Alt%204%20Modified%20Rollplot_20170213_edited_V3.pdf
Though the northern end of this project seems more permanent than I expected. Maybe they think it'll be a long while before PA does their portion. I would have expected an abrupt end to the four lane highway with a connector road to the current route which includes two 90 degree turns.
Quote from: BrianP on May 22, 2017, 05:51:00 PM
The plans show a brief 4 lane highway that ends between US Alt 40 and the state line. The rest of the road to the state line will be completed when PA does their part.
http://www.us219northmd.com/docs/US%20219_Alt%204%20Modified%20Rollplot_20170213_edited_V3.pdf
Though the northern end of this project seems more permanent than I expected. Maybe they think it'll be a long while before PA does their portion. I would have expected an abrupt end to the four lane highway with a connector road to the current route which includes two 90 degree turns.
The 90+ degree curve to the existing I-68 interchange, looks like the ultimate design would be to connect the new US-219 directly to I-68 with a new interchange.
Quote from: Beltway on May 22, 2017, 08:51:06 PM
Quote from: BrianP on May 22, 2017, 05:51:00 PM
The plans show a brief 4 lane highway that ends between US Alt 40 and the state line. The rest of the road to the state line will be completed when PA does their part.
http://www.us219northmd.com/docs/US%20219_Alt%204%20Modified%20Rollplot_20170213_edited_V3.pdf
Though the northern end of this project seems more permanent than I expected. Maybe they think it'll be a long while before PA does their portion. I would have expected an abrupt end to the four lane highway with a connector road to the current route which includes two 90 degree turns.
The 90+ degree curve to the existing I-68 interchange, looks like the ultimate design would be to connect the new US-219 directly to I-68 with a new interchange.
There appears to already be part of the grading for the ramps that would ultimately connect 219 to 68. The northern end doesn't seem any more "permanent" than, say, the now-obliterated former northern end of the Meyersdale Bypass. Plus, the website even mentions possible plans to connect to Pennsylvania's expressway eventually.
On the other end of the US 219 freeway in Pennsylvania, are there any plans to extend the 219 freeway northward towards Carrolltown and beyond, or is any northern extension permanently dead?
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on May 23, 2017, 03:45:18 PM
On the other end of the US 219 freeway in Pennsylvania, are there any plans to extend the 219 freeway northward towards Carrolltown and beyond, or is any northern extension permanently dead?
I don't know about "permanently" being the best word. At some point there might be some swell of support for the funding and construction for whatever reasons on whatever level to resume this.... But I'd state that's indefinitely dormant. If I live to the average life expectancy, I still wouldn't bet on it existing before I die. I have a feeling they'll find the money to do Meyersdale <-> Whatever MD builds at some point, even if it's years/decade+, but you never know.
Quote from: Beltway on May 22, 2017, 08:51:06 PM
The 90+ degree curve to the existing I-68 interchange, looks like the ultimate design would be to connect the new US-219 directly to I-68 with a new interchange.
While it does look like that would be a logical step, once they spend the money on this (if they follow thru) I doubt they'd revisit it and build a more direct interchange unless traffic volumes / safety concerns absolutely demand it. Not to dwell on the fact I'm not immortal, but if this gets built as planned, I would expect it to be my 219 @ 68 experience for the rest of my life.
But that's just my opinion, and you never know what's gonna happen.....
Quote from: Mr_Northside on May 23, 2017, 06:50:08 PM
Quote from: Beltway on May 22, 2017, 08:51:06 PM
The 90+ degree curve to the existing I-68 interchange, looks like the ultimate design would be to connect the new US-219 directly to I-68 with a new interchange.
While it does look like that would be a logical step, once they spend the money on this (if they follow thru) I doubt they'd revisit it and build a more direct interchange unless traffic volumes / safety concerns absolutely demand it. Not to dwell on the fact I'm not immortal, but if this gets built as planned, I would expect it to be my 219 @ 68 experience for the rest of my life.
But that's just my opinion, and you never know what's gonna happen.....
The current US-219 freeway project Meyersdale-Somerset bypasses the 2-lane US-219 that carries as low as about 5,000 AADT. Could question whether a freeway is needed.
Segment completion (I-68 to Somerset) still awaits the PA and MD projects south of Meyersdale.
I also argue that they need a direct connection between the US-219 freeway and the Turnpike before they can exploit the capabilities of a completed US-219 freeway from I-68 to Somerset.
IOW, that proposed interchange at I-68 won't get much traffic for a long time to come.
Quote from: Beltway on May 23, 2017, 07:43:07 PM
I also argue that they need a direct connection between the US-219 freeway and the Turnpike before they can exploit the capabilities of a completed US-219 freeway from I-68 to Somerset.
yawn
Virtual tour of the Maryland section (http://vtour.123bim.com/IEPB/vtour.html), just because a video version made it onto my Facebook newsfeed. An interesting aspect that no one else has mentioned is that the northern roundabout, where the new highway would terminate, provides extra capacity for the U-shaped movements between new 219 and the northern leg of old 219. The liberally configured right turn ramp from southbound new 219 to northbound old 219 could be spun as a neat way to kill off a lane so as not to necessitate a two-lane roundabout, but... the movement from southbound old 219-- and the western leg of the circular roadway-- are two lanes anyway! :hmmm:
There's this, too. I'm guessing that curve will be signed for 40 mph.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.us219northmd.com%2Fimg%2FAlt-4-mod_fullmapv2.png&hash=0d5de62bb8b07e70cea821514259543836eb2898)
Is MD anywhere close to construction?
^^
That does look like it is designed with the potential for future major upgrades in mind.
Mike
I use I-68 and the existing US 219 through here frequently. Some traffic signals at the I-68 ramps would be nice, but other than that, the existing US 219 is adequate.
I don't see there being much advantage to the construction as proposed. Either build a new interchange with a direct tie-in to I-68 or just leave things as they are. If you want to spend money in Garrett County, completing the Oakland bypass would be more useful.
How far along is the proposed connector project Tom958 mentioned? Is the study complete? Is the project funded? Does it have a construction date?
Quote from: Bitmapped on January 29, 2018, 12:06:38 AM
I use I-68 and the existing US 219 through here frequently. Some traffic signals at the I-68 ramps would be nice, but other than that, the existing US 219 is adequate.
I don't see there being much advantage to the construction as proposed. Either build a new interchange with a direct tie-in to I-68 or just leave things as they are. If you want to spend money in Garrett County, completing the Oakland bypass would be more useful.
I wasn't even aware Oakland was getting a bypass. Isn't it a bit too rural for one?
Quote from: seicer on February 08, 2018, 12:41:48 AM
Quote from: Bitmapped on January 29, 2018, 12:06:38 AM
I use I-68 and the existing US 219 through here frequently. Some traffic signals at the I-68 ramps would be nice, but other than that, the existing US 219 is adequate.
I don't see there being much advantage to the construction as proposed. Either build a new interchange with a direct tie-in to I-68 or just leave things as they are. If you want to spend money in Garrett County, completing the Oakland bypass would be more useful.
I wasn't even aware Oakland was getting a bypass. Isn't it a bit too rural for one?
I think the project's roots go back to 1960, when US 219 was relocated south of MD 135. A 0.25-mile section of the bypass exists north of MD 135, and SHA bought ROW for more in 2007, but the project has stalled since then. About another mile's worth of ROW would need to be bought for completion.
Existing US 219 gets 13,000 VPD, has two 90-degree turns, and goes through 2 miles of high and medium density development. The bypass isn't a high priority but would be beneficial. If Maryland is dedicated to spending money in Garrett County, this project would make a lot more sense than the part north of I-68. The new bypass there would only serve 4100 VPD and basically just cuts off a traffic signal.
SHA bought about half the ROW needed, but then the project stalled about 15 years ago. There are 13,000 vehicles through day passing through 2 miles of town and two 90-degree turns.
It's not an urgently needed project, which is why it's been shelved, but if Maryland is going to spend money in Garrett County, this is a better place than north of I-68 which has only 4100 VPD.
Oakland isn't a huge town, but it is the county seat and major shopping area for Garrett County. US 219 has two miles through town with two 90-degree turns. This stretch has about 13,000 vehicles per day, triple the amount of traffic on the piece of US 219 near the PA line. It's not an urgently needed project, but if you're throwing money at Garrett County, this makes more sense to build out than what is proposed now.
Maybe MD thinks the traffic will shoot up a lot once the missing segment between the two freeways parts in PA opens later.
Is this thing opening soon or what?
Also, has there been any movement on what, if anything, the current portion of 219 between Meyersdale the interchange outside Somerset is going to be designated?
You'd think that for a major chunk of new-terrain freeway like this, and one so long in the making and highly anticipated, PennDOT would have a lot more information about it online. Instead, PennDOT is handling the communication like its 1988, not 2018. No dedicated website, no regular updates, no images, no easily accessible information at all. Only a relative handful of text-only press releases... if you know where to look for them.
It's a textbook case of how not to communicate with the public in the online, internet era.
Quote from: wphiii on September 11, 2018, 11:56:44 PM
Is this thing opening soon or what?
It should be opening fairly soon - I think I've read by the end of fall.
I was just out there last Saturday on my way back from the beach.... it seems like the pavement is there in all the spots I could see. It seems like it just needs paint, signs, guiderails - that kind of stuff.
There have been hiccups but I'm not sure how much that they set things back as the end date has always been fall of this year IIRC.
QuoteConstruction crews have hit a few road blocks. Fifteen-hundred feet of concrete needed to be torn up because it didn't meet PennDOT standards. Rain has also delayed paving.
https://www.wearecentralpa.com/news/drivers-anxious-to-hit-the-road-on-route-219/1310230146
New US 219 south of Somerset PA to open week of 11/19
https://www.penndot.gov/regionaloffices/district-9/pages/details.aspx?newsid=614 (https://www.penndot.gov/regionaloffices/district-9/pages/details.aspx?newsid=614)
I caught the tail end of PennDOT Community Day for the new US 219 Somerset-Meyersdale freeway today. To access it, you entered the new freeway southbound from Plank Road (old US 219) and drove for 1.3 miles to just south of the Walters Mill Road overpass, where you used a median crossover and parked in the northbound lanes. From there, you could walk or bike down to Mud Pike. There were 3 staffed stations set up along the way.
Considering the weather was mid-40s and rainy, they seemed to have a decent turnout when I was there near the end of the period. I only walked about a half mile due to limited time, but there were plenty of other walkers and people on bikes.
There is still a good bit of work that needs done at this stage. Lane striping and reflectors need installed, the cable median guardrail needs finished, some signage still remains to go up, and they still seem to be doing some grading for drainage beside the roadway.
The new road has Interstate-style green mile markers but no exit numbers. Old US 219 (Plank Road) is signed as Berlin/Somerset with no route shield, so I guess it's not getting a Business 219 designation. Mud Pike was signed without a shield either. I'm kind of surprised there's no new route number being assigned to connect Berlin to Somerset.
Quote from: Bitmapped on October 27, 2018, 10:28:47 PM
There is still a good bit of work that needs done at this stage. Lane striping and reflectors need installed, the cable median guardrail needs finished, some signage still remains to go up, and they still seem to be doing some grading for drainage beside the roadway.
Is the signage Highway Gothic or Clearview?
Quote from: Bitmapped on October 27, 2018, 10:28:47 PM
The new road has Interstate-style green mile markers but no exit numbers.
This is normal for Pennsylvania. Non-Interstates, even long-distance corridors, generally don't have exit numbers. The ones that do are usually for a reason. They either are or once were intended to be an interstate (US 220 and 15 north of I-80, PA 581), were once an Interstate (PA 378), are a PTC-owned toll road, or they just felt like adding them, I guess (PA 28, US 6 Scranton-Carbondale).
Quote from: Bitmapped on October 27, 2018, 10:28:47 PM
Old US 219 (Plank Road) is signed as Berlin/Somerset with no route shield, so I guess it's not getting a Business 219 designation. Mud Pike was signed with a shield either. I'm kind of surprised there's no new route number being assigned to connect Berlin to Somerset.
I'm more surprised that the Plank Road exit isn't signed directly as the way to the Turnpike, at least from northbound. They have you go all the way up to the PA 601 exit for that. Coming out of the toll plaza, the PTC sends you via PA 281 to get to 219.
I suppose a southerly PA 601 extension to Meyersdale would make the most sense to give it a number. Maybe even have it take over Business 219 through the town.
Quote from: Roadsguy on October 27, 2018, 11:31:25 PM
Is the signage Highway Gothic or Clearview?
Highway Gothic, but it has the problem common to a lot of PennDOT signage with mismatched letter heights.
Quote from: Roadsguy on October 27, 2018, 11:31:25 PM
Quote from: Bitmapped on October 27, 2018, 10:28:47 PM
Old US 219 (Plank Road) is signed as Berlin/Somerset with no route shield, so I guess it's not getting a Business 219 designation. Mud Pike was signed without a shield either. I'm kind of surprised there's no new route number being assigned to connect Berlin to Somerset.
I'm more surprised that the Plank Road exit isn't signed directly as the way to the Turnpike, at least from northbound. They have you go all the way up to the PA 601 exit for that. Coming out of the toll plaza, the PTC sends you via PA 281 to get to 219.
Somerset really is a mess. There's no good way between the Turnpike and 219. Although a lesser concern, there's also no good route from PA 31 to either or from PA 281 south to either without running all around town.
While it would be theoretically possible with AET to have a higih-speed connection between the Turnpike and 219, there's development all around there. Probably the best thing would be a Turnpike/31 interchange paired with a 219/31 interchange or a pair of double trumpets with a spur to 31.
Quote from: Roadsguy on October 27, 2018, 11:31:25 PM
I suppose a southerly PA 601 extension to Meyersdale would make the most sense to give it a number. Maybe even have it take over Business 219 through the town.
I could see that. I'd probably extend PA 653 to the northern end of the Meyersdale bypass and demote the existing 219 between Garrett and Berlin to a quadrant route.
Quote from: Bitmapped on October 28, 2018, 10:44:12 AM
Quote from: Roadsguy on October 27, 2018, 11:31:25 PM
Is the signage Highway Gothic or Clearview?
Highway Gothic, but it has the problem common to a lot of PennDOT signage with mismatched letter heights.
:banghead:
Honestly, if I were there, I'd have found someone to comment to about that.
Fortunately I don't remember seeing this recurring error anywhere outside of western PA. I don't know what it is with those handful of districts that all get it so wrong, but not in central or southeastern PA.
Quote from: Bitmapped on October 28, 2018, 10:44:12 AM
While it would be theoretically possible with AET to have a high-speed connection between the Turnpike and 219, there's development all around there. Probably the best thing would be a Turnpike/31 interchange paired with a 219/31 interchange or a pair of double trumpets with a spur to 31.
Yeah.... while it's now been a few years since they rebuilt those service plazas
immediately after the US-219 overpasses to the west, they're certainly new enough still they'll be around for decades. Someone is trying to build some kind of business park in the NE quadrant of that junction....
It is slightly ironic as (almost certainly) AET is gradually coming to the Turnpike, that the best chance of a free-flowing link would be a "traditional" turnpike double-trumpet interchange.
Of course, as of now, it's not like anything is going to happen to create that connection.
Quote from: Mr_Northside on October 29, 2018, 08:53:39 PM
It is slightly ironic as (almost certainly) AET is gradually coming to the Turnpike, that the best chance of a free-flowing link would be a "traditional" turnpike double-trumpet interchange.
There is ample room on the NE and SE quadrants to build a double-trumpet interchange. That would be a vast improvement over the local connections.
Quote from: Beltway on October 29, 2018, 09:00:56 PM
Quote from: Mr_Northside on October 29, 2018, 08:53:39 PM
It is slightly ironic as (almost certainly) AET is gradually coming to the Turnpike, that the best chance of a free-flowing link would be a "traditional" turnpike double-trumpet interchange.
There is ample room on the NE and SE quadrants to build a double-trumpet interchange. That would be a vast improvement over the local connections.
Yeah, and I'm not sure this connection needs an actual high-speed interchange with flyovers. I don't know what expected traffic volumes would be if 219 were a full freeway from I-68 to I-80 or I-86, but in a flatter state it probably would've been built as a cloverleaf today, and a modern double-trumpet with no toll plaza isn't much worse and takes the weave away from the mainlines entirely.
Opening tomorrow (November 21, 2018):
https://wjactv.com/news/local/drone-video-of-us-219-before-it-opens-to-traffic-wednesday-afternoon
Clearview and oversized capital letters on that sign? :no:
Still, great to see this finally opening. Interesting how that one bridge seems to be paved with asphalt despite the generally concrete road.
From the looks of this, the new US 219 will be a much more pleasant drive than the old two-laner. Just another piece of a much larger puzzle that is a nonstop route from I-68 to Buffalo, NY, falling into place.
Quote from: Henry on November 21, 2018, 09:51:56 AM
From the looks of this, the new US 219 will be a much more pleasant drive than the old two-laner. Just another piece of a much larger puzzle that is a nonstop route from I-68 to Buffalo, NY, falling into place.
Are there any US 219 Expressway plans at all north of Ebensburg, PA?
Quote from: Beltway on November 21, 2018, 09:53:58 AM
Quote from: Henry on November 21, 2018, 09:51:56 AM
From the looks of this, the new US 219 will be a much more pleasant drive than the old two-laner. Just another piece of a much larger puzzle that is a nonstop route from I-68 to Buffalo, NY, falling into place.
Are there any US 219 Expressway plans at all north of Ebensburg, PA?
AFAIK, it's all a part of the Continental 1 corridor that has been proposed for almost two decades.
Quote from: Henry on November 21, 2018, 10:07:15 AM
Quote from: Beltway on November 21, 2018, 09:53:58 AM
Quote from: Henry on November 21, 2018, 09:51:56 AM
From the looks of this, the new US 219 will be a much more pleasant drive than the old two-laner. Just another piece of a much larger puzzle that is a nonstop route from I-68 to Buffalo, NY, falling into place.
Are there any US 219 Expressway plans at all north of Ebensburg, PA?
AFAIK, it's all a part of the Continental 1 corridor that has been proposed for almost two decades.
Proposed by who? PA US-219 is not a Congressional High Priority Corridor.
The Continental 1 (http://continental1.org) corridor coalition is still in existence. In Pennsylvania, the effort was largely championed by the late Rep. Jack Martha. From what I understand, there was something of a "pork war" in PA transportation funding in the '90s–Murtha pushing for freeway upgrades to US 219 while his colleague Bud Shuster fought for US 220 funding. We all know who got further, faster.
Quote from: briantroutman on November 21, 2018, 01:26:11 PM
The Continental 1 (http://continental1.org) corridor coalition is still in existence. In Pennsylvania, the effort was largely championed by the late Rep. Jack Martha. From what I understand, there was something of a pork war in PA transportation funding in the 90sMurtha pushing for freeway upgrades to US 219 while his colleague Bud Shuster fought for US 220 funding. We all know who got further, faster.
I saw that webpage already. Nothing official, just the wishes of some local business persons. Good luck getting 100+ miles of freeway built north of Ebensburg, given the costs and low traffic.
There's really no need to continue US 219 north of Ebensburg as a freeway, but there are locations that could use spot improvements. I would like to see a 2-lane bypass of Northern Cambria, similar to what was done at Johnsonburg. Northern Cambria doesn't have a lot of population, only about 3800 people, but it's 4.4 miles long along US 219 and takes a long time to go through.
OSM is now updated. Someone already switched the tags from construction to completed motorway, but they left all the route tags alone. :ded:
Quote from: Roadsguy on November 21, 2018, 08:48:21 PM
OSM is now updated. Someone already switched the tags from construction to completed motorway, but they left all the route tags alone. :ded:
People suck.
Anyone driven the new segment yet? I find myself wondering what the travel time would be coming from the DC area to, say, Seven Springs going via the new route instead of via Breezewood. I suppose the question would then become the best way to get around Somerset, because when I look at the map it occurs to me that going from the south to Seven Springs the new road may not save you any time at all depending on where you turn west.
(BTW, regarding going from the Turnpike to US-219, I used the old 219 once, back in 2006 driving from Pittsburgh to Rocky Gap State Park near Cumberland. My sat-nav sent us north on PA-601 to that short access road where the Wal-Mart is now, then south on 219. Talk about way the heck out of the way.)
Quote from: 1995hoo on November 23, 2018, 11:21:12 AM
Anyone driven the new segment yet? I find myself wondering what the travel time would be coming from the DC area to, say, Seven Springs going via the new route instead of via Breezewood. I suppose the question would then become the best way to get around Somerset, because when I look at the map it occurs to me that going from the south to Seven Springs the new road may not save you any time at all depending on where you turn west.
(BTW, regarding going from the Turnpike to US-219, I used the old 219 once, back in 2006 driving from Pittsburgh to Rocky Gap State Park near Cumberland. My sat-nav sent us north on PA-601 to that short access road where the Wal-Mart is now, then south on 219. Talk about way the heck out of the way.)
If all goes well, I'm going to drive it on Monday. I've only driven from Somerset to the state line once, and that was part of an attempt to clinch 219, so I've never had any experience on the shortcut route south of Somerset that's supposed to shave time and mileage off the existing 219. I think it's one of those Pennsylvania four-digit SRs.
And my plan is to shunpike. I'll be staying in Bedford or Breezewood, so I'm going to take PA 31 over to Somerset and avoid the turnpike.
Quote from: hbelkins on November 23, 2018, 01:44:45 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on November 23, 2018, 11:21:12 AM
Anyone driven the new segment yet? I find myself wondering what the travel time would be coming from the DC area to, say, Seven Springs going via the new route instead of via Breezewood. I suppose the question would then become the best way to get around Somerset, because when I look at the map it occurs to me that going from the south to Seven Springs the new road may not save you any time at all depending on where you turn west.
(BTW, regarding going from the Turnpike to US-219, I used the old 219 once, back in 2006 driving from Pittsburgh to Rocky Gap State Park near Cumberland. My sat-nav sent us north on PA-601 to that short access road where the Wal-Mart is now, then south on 219. Talk about way the heck out of the way.)
If all goes well, I'm going to drive it on Monday. I've only driven from Somerset to the state line once, and that was part of an attempt to clinch 219, so I've never had any experience on the shortcut route south of Somerset that's supposed to shave time and mileage off the existing 219. I think it's one of those Pennsylvania four-digit SRs.
And my plan is to shunpike. I'll be staying in Bedford or Breezewood, so I'm going to take PA 31 over to Somerset and avoid the turnpike.
The shortcut route is Garrett Shortcut Rd (SR 2031) (http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF).
Quote from: 74/171FAN on November 23, 2018, 04:29:19 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on November 23, 2018, 01:44:45 PM
And my plan is to shunpike. I'll be staying in Bedford or Breezewood, so I'm going to take PA 31 over to Somerset and avoid the turnpike.
The shortcut route is Garrett Shortcut Rd (SR 2031) (http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF).
The shortcut doesn't get you from Bedford to Somerset. It only avoids part of the new US 219 segment -- what we want to snag, and in any case now a much better shortcut south from Somerset than the Garrett Shortcut.
My plan is to take PA 31 as well rather than the turnpike, time and weather/road conditions permitting.
Quote from: oscar on November 23, 2018, 04:52:40 PM
Quote from: 74/171FAN on November 23, 2018, 04:29:19 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on November 23, 2018, 01:44:45 PM
And my plan is to shunpike. I'll be staying in Bedford or Breezewood, so I'm going to take PA 31 over to Somerset and avoid the turnpike.
The shortcut route is Garrett Shortcut Rd (SR 2031) (http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF).
The shortcut doesn't get you from Bedford to Somerset. It only avoids part of the new US 219 segment -- what we want to snag, and in any case now a much better shortcut south from Somerset than the Garrett Shortcut.
My plan is to take PA 31 as well rather than the turnpike, time and weather/road conditions permitting.
Oh, I knew that the shortcut was for US 219 south of Somerset. I just wondered if that new segment of 219 rendered it a better overall route from Somerset to I-68 than the shortcut.
I'm now considering doing my 219 exploration on my way north (Saturday) instead of Monday morning.
Quote from: 1995hoo on November 23, 2018, 11:21:12 AM
Anyone driven the new segment yet? I find myself wondering what the travel time would be coming from the DC area to, say, Seven Springs going via the new route instead of via Breezewood. I suppose the question would then become the best way to get around Somerset, because when I look at the map it occurs to me that going from the south to Seven Springs the new road may not save you any time at all depending on where you turn west.
(BTW, regarding going from the Turnpike to US-219, I used the old 219 once, back in 2006 driving from Pittsburgh to Rocky Gap State Park near Cumberland. My sat-nav sent us north on PA-601 to that short access road where the Wal-Mart is now, then south on 219. Talk about way the heck out of the way.)
Drove it today. It took me 28 minutes to get from I-68 to the PA 281 exit. The speed limit is 65 mph, and that's all I did, because the road was wet and the temp was hovering around 32. There had already been a snow removal effort on the road because snow was piled up on the shoulders. Very light traffic; had the weather been good I would probably have driven 75 mph. Saw absolutely no cops, and my trusty V-1 was on guard.
Quote from: hbelkins on November 24, 2018, 05:33:49 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on November 23, 2018, 11:21:12 AM
Anyone driven the new segment yet? I find myself wondering what the travel time would be coming from the DC area to, say, Seven Springs going via the new route instead of via Breezewood. I suppose the question would then become the best way to get around Somerset, because when I look at the map it occurs to me that going from the south to Seven Springs the new road may not save you any time at all depending on where you turn west.
(BTW, regarding going from the Turnpike to US-219, I used the old 219 once, back in 2006 driving from Pittsburgh to Rocky Gap State Park near Cumberland. My sat-nav sent us north on PA-601 to that short access road where the Wal-Mart is now, then south on 219. Talk about way the heck out of the way.)
Drove it today. It took me 28 minutes to get from I-68 to the PA 281 exit. The speed limit is 65 mph, and that's all I did, because the road was wet and the temp was hovering around 32. There had already been a snow removal effort on the road because snow was piled up on the shoulders. Very light traffic; had the weather been good I would probably have driven 75 mph. Saw absolutely no cops, and my trusty V-1 was on guard.
Does the 65 mph limit extend all the way to the southern end of the Meyersdale Bypass?
Quote from: Roadsguy on November 24, 2018, 06:19:10 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on November 24, 2018, 05:33:49 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on November 23, 2018, 11:21:12 AM
Anyone driven the new segment yet? I find myself wondering what the travel time would be coming from the DC area to, say, Seven Springs going via the new route instead of via Breezewood. I suppose the question would then become the best way to get around Somerset, because when I look at the map it occurs to me that going from the south to Seven Springs the new road may not save you any time at all depending on where you turn west.
(BTW, regarding going from the Turnpike to US-219, I used the old 219 once, back in 2006 driving from Pittsburgh to Rocky Gap State Park near Cumberland. My sat-nav sent us north on PA-601 to that short access road where the Wal-Mart is now, then south on 219. Talk about way the heck out of the way.)
Drove it today. It took me 28 minutes to get from I-68 to the PA 281 exit. The speed limit is 65 mph, and that's all I did, because the road was wet and the temp was hovering around 32. There had already been a snow removal effort on the road because snow was piled up on the shoulders. Very light traffic; had the weather been good I would probably have driven 75 mph. Saw absolutely no cops, and my trusty V-1 was on guard.
Does the 65 mph limit extend all the way to the southern end of the Meyersdale Bypass?
Having driven 219 from I-90 down to I-68 today, I can confirm that it does. Ton of deer along the new segment.
Quote from: hbelkins on November 23, 2018, 08:52:11 PM
Quote from: oscar on November 23, 2018, 04:52:40 PM
Quote from: 74/171FAN on November 23, 2018, 04:29:19 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on November 23, 2018, 01:44:45 PM
And my plan is to shunpike. I'll be staying in Bedford or Breezewood, so I'm going to take PA 31 over to Somerset and avoid the turnpike.
The shortcut route is Garrett Shortcut Rd (SR 2031) (http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF).
The shortcut doesn't get you from Bedford to Somerset. It only avoids part of the new US 219 segment -- what we want to snag, and in any case now a much better shortcut south from Somerset than the Garrett Shortcut.
My plan is to take PA 31 as well rather than the turnpike, time and weather/road conditions permitting.
Oh, I knew that the shortcut was for US 219 south of Somerset. I just wondered if that new segment of 219 rendered it a better overall route from Somerset to I-68 than the shortcut.
I'm now considering doing my 219 exploration on my way north (Saturday) instead of Monday morning.
New 219 is definitely a better route than Garrett Shortcut Road. I normally took Garrett Shortcut Road rather than US 219 since it was shorter and had better geometry (flatter, straighter), but the new freeway is shorter still for through traffic.
Now that the freeway is done, I think this becomes my preferred route from Morgantown to Somerset/north instead of WV 26 and PA 281.
I noticed something interesting on Google Maps. In terrain view, you can see that PennDOT graded ROW for the mainline and ramps for about 3800 feet heading south from Berlin Plank Road back in the 1970s: https://goo.gl/maps/Pp6ncrDdPR62
When they built the new road, it veers off this alignment about 2800 feet south of Berlin Plank Road to avoid something and then comes back to where that straight alignment would have gone about 3000 feet later: https://goo.gl/maps/Aqh4sEfhEiN2
Quote from: Bitmapped on November 25, 2018, 08:51:31 PM
I noticed something interesting on Google Maps. In terrain view, you can see that PennDOT graded ROW for the mainline and ramps for about 3800 feet heading south from Berlin Plank Road back in the 1970s: https://goo.gl/maps/Pp6ncrDdPR62
When they built the new road, it veers off this alignment about 2800 feet south of Berlin Plank Road to avoid something and then comes back to where that straight alignment would have gone about 3000 feet later: https://goo.gl/maps/Aqh4sEfhEiN2
I'm sure it was rerouted around some environmental feature.
You can also tell by comparing the two sections of expressway, and even comparing them both to the Meyersdale Bypass, how much they've reduced median widths for 219 over time.
Quote from: Roadsguy on November 25, 2018, 08:57:21 PM
I'm sure it was rerouted around some environmental feature.
Abandoned mine, sinkholes, those are possibilities.
Quote from: Beltway on November 25, 2018, 10:00:57 PM
Quote from: Roadsguy on November 25, 2018, 08:57:21 PM
I'm sure it was rerouted around some environmental feature.
Abandoned mine, sinkholes, those are possibilities.
As well as acid producing rock:
http://www3.geosc.psu.edu/~jlm80/PAacidRockMap.pdf
I thought it was to avoid a state game land.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on November 26, 2018, 10:31:49 PM
I thought it was to avoid a state game land.
State Game Lands #50 covers both sides of the highway here.
They've got it on Google... sort of. It doesn't fully connect at the north end and all the shields and high road status are still on the old road. It is shown as a freeway, though the existing Meyersdale Bypass section is not.
The addition must have just happened yesterday, as I found the entire section missing while working on updating the US 219 exit guide on Sunday and Monday. Google Maps still won't use it for directions as it keeps the routing on the former alignment.
For those of you who are Travel Mapping members, take note that you'll need to edit your US-219 entries if you haven't driven the new segment–the waypoints haven't changed, so if you've previously driven from Somerset down to Meyersdale (or vice versa) it'll mark the new segment as having been driven.
Quote from: 1995hoo on November 28, 2018, 06:10:03 PM
For those of you who are Travel Mapping members, take note that you'll need to edit your US-219 entries if you haven't driven the new segment–the waypoints haven't changed, so if you've previously driven from Somerset down to Meyersdale (or vice versa) it'll mark the new segment as having been driven.
That is correct. Thanks for posting this since I did not think to mention it here.
Quote from: 74/171FAN on November 28, 2018, 07:28:53 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on November 28, 2018, 06:10:03 PM
For those of you who are Travel Mapping members, take note that you'll need to edit your US-219 entries if you haven't driven the new segment–the waypoints haven't changed, so if you've previously driven from Somerset down to Meyersdale (or vice versa) it'll mark the new segment as having been driven.
That is correct. Thanks for posting this since I did not think to mention it here.
I discovered it quite by accident–I've been thinking about a weekend trip to Toronto at some point and I looked at Travel Mapping to see which routes I haven't clinched, and that's when I noticed the line on the new road. My data will remain incorrect for another month because I'll wait until after our Christmas trip to submit all my updates at one time.
Quote from: 1995hoo on November 23, 2018, 11:21:12 AM
I suppose the question would then become the best way to get around Somerset, because when I look at the map it occurs to me that going from the south to Seven Springs the new road may not save you any time at all depending on where you turn west.
I'd get off the new 219 segment at Mud Pike and take that road all the way to New Centerville where you can pick up County Line Rd to Seven Springs. Very sparse traffic on Mud Pike, and some good straightaways for passing if need be.
I can't definitively say that this would be appreciably faster than taking the 70 the whole way, especially since between Salisbury and Meyersdale 219 can still get rough if there are trucks about, but Breezewood sucks, the Turnpike sucks, and paying for the Turnpike sucks, so it'd be worth it in my book, regardless. (And there isn't really an efficient way to get from the Turnpike to Seven Springs, anyway, so my best guess is it'd end up being a wash at worst).
Unrelated: I had the chance to drive the new segment from south to north earlier this week. One thing that stood out to me was a lack of Turnpike guidance, which I felt is concerning since that connection is not easy or obvious. I took 219 all the way up to PA 281 just to be sure, and saw no indication anywhere of how to get to the Turnpike. Is this something that should/will be remedied in the near future?
I still prefer my usual route of Berlin --> PA 160 --> Cumberland, which I took on the way back, and noticed the 219 markers were still up all along the former route. Going to be interesting to see if the new segment makes a tangible difference in traffic on 160.
Quote from: wphiii on December 06, 2018, 11:12:08 AM
Unrelated: I had the chance to drive the new segment from south to north earlier this week. One thing that stood out to me was a lack of Turnpike guidance, which I felt is concerning since that connection is not easy or obvious. I took 219 all the way up to PA 281 just to be sure, and saw no indication anywhere of how to get to the Turnpike. Is this something that should/will be remedied in the near future?
The guidance is to use the next exit up to PA 601 - https://goo.gl/maps/Rrg5vmRcgCR2 - which is twice as far and nearly twice as long for time per Google as compared to using PA 281 and Pleasant Ave.
The PA 601 connector has always been signed first for the Turnpike and second for 601 and to 985.
There is a Turnpike marker with a "3 MILES" auxiliary sign where northbound 219 used to turn onto the expressway southeast of Somerset. From that point via old 219, 31, and North Pleasant Avenue, you'll hit the Turnpike access road.
On a side note, Google now acknowledges the new alignment when routing instead of the old route and/or the Garrett Shortcut between Meyersdale and Somerset.
SM-G965U
Quote from: PAHighways on December 06, 2018, 10:25:55 PM
On a side note, Google now acknowledges the new alignment when routing instead of the old route and/or the Garrett Shortcut between Meyersdale and Somerset.
Though there's still a hole in the southbound lanes at the northern end of the new expressway. They haven't actually moved 219 onto it either.
Let's see how long it takes them to actually notice and fix these. Their update of the Monroe Expressway down in NC is equally bad, though that isn't quite routeable yet.
The mystery as to what would become of old US 219 has been solved. PennDOT has extended the SR 2047 (http://www.pahighways.com/state/somerset.html#SR2047) designation north from its previous terminus at the northern terminus of Business US 219 in Meyersdale to the former southern end of the expressway southeast of Somerset: http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF (http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF).
Quote from: PAHighways on July 07, 2019, 09:24:45 PM
The mystery as to what would become of old US 219 has been solved. PennDOT has extended the SR 2047 (http://www.pahighways.com/state/somerset.html#SR2047) designation north from its previous terminus at the northern terminus of Business US 219 in Meyersdale to the former southern end of the expressway southeast of Somerset: http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF (http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF).
Why not designate the old US-219 as Business US-219? Since it connects Berlin that might be a good idea.
Granted that PennDOT usually doesn't do that when a new freeway replaces a U.S. route, they just remove the route number.
Quote from: Beltway on July 07, 2019, 09:29:49 PM
Quote from: PAHighways on July 07, 2019, 09:24:45 PM
The mystery as to what would become of old US 219 has been solved. PennDOT has extended the SR 2047 (http://www.pahighways.com/state/somerset.html#SR2047) designation north from its previous terminus at the northern terminus of Business US 219 in Meyersdale to the former southern end of the expressway southeast of Somerset: http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF (http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF).
Why not designate the old US-219 as Business US-219? Since it connects Berlin that might be a good idea.
Granted that PennDOT usually doesn't do that when a new freeway replaces a U.S. route, they just remove the route number.
I'm not sold on Business 219 since this serves a rural area and doesn't immediately parallel the old road, but portions of this should have been given a traffic route designation, at least to prevent PA 653 from having a dangling end. I'd have extended PA 653 to US 219/Business 219 on the north side of Meyersdale. I'd probably also route PA 601 along Old 219 from downtown Somerset out to PA 160 at Berlin. Old 219 between Garrett and Berlin is probably best left as a quadrant route to avoid encouraging through traffic. Mud Pike from the new freeway is the better option for accessing Berlin from the south.
Quote from: PAHighways on July 07, 2019, 09:24:45 PM
The mystery as to what would become of old US 219 has been solved. PennDOT has extended the SR 2047 (http://www.pahighways.com/state/somerset.html#SR2047) designation north from its previous terminus at the northern terminus of Business US 219 in Meyersdale to the former southern end of the expressway southeast of Somerset: http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF (http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF).
I clarified with District 9 today that the plan is for the Old US 219 to remain SR 2047.
Quote from: 74/171FAN on December 02, 2021, 08:45:48 AM
Quote from: PAHighways on July 07, 2019, 09:24:45 PM
The mystery as to what would become of old US 219 has been solved. PennDOT has extended the SR 2047 (http://www.pahighways.com/state/somerset.html#SR2047) designation north from its previous terminus at the northern terminus of Business US 219 in Meyersdale to the former southern end of the expressway southeast of Somerset: http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF (http://www.dot7.state.pa.us/BPR_pdf_files/Maps/GHS/Roadnames/Somerset_GHSN.PDF).
I clarified with District 9 today that the plan is for the Old US 219 to remain SR 2047.
I don't see a problem with most of Old US 219 remaining as a quadrant route, but leaving PA 653 with a dangling end is a bad choice IMHO.