Though we may not drive on it for at least another 10 years - if ever,
the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has slowly begun to acquire
property for the next leg of the Southern Beltway in suburban
Pittsburgh. The right-of-way acquisition is happening along the path
of the 13 miles US 22 to I-79 section for PA Turnpike 576.
The PTC will acquire approximately 100 homes in Cecil, Robinson, and
South Fayette Townships. Although the Turnpike Commission currently
has funds available to purchase land along the proposed highway, it is
nowhere near procuring the projected $730 million in funds to build
the highway. As a result, the PTC is allowing property owners to
vacate the land at their discretion.
http://www.observer-reporter.com/or/localnews/01-25-2010-cecil-houses-southern-beltway
That sound a lot like what happened along the stretch of TN 840 that is currently being built in southwestern Williamson County.
The state acquired the land and then the project got bogged down in environmental lawsuits. When the lawsuits were settled, there were some changes to the routing of 840 and the state let the original owners have the property back, if they wanted it. In some cases, they didn't want it back because, not surprisingly, the state let the buildings decay.
While I'd like to see the PTC complete all their remaining projects/segments... if they find that they'll probably never have the money to do them all, this is the one project that seems like it makes sense to really try and finish anyway. (All-around, the northern Mon-Fayette section would probably be the most useful... but obviously the most difficult to actually achieve)
CT has the same story with Route 11, a few more highway projects left to be completed (US-6 & US-7) but CT-11 seems to be the most likely to get finished. However, the state started to acquire land around the highway for the proposed greenway to stifle the environmentalists. But the project is stalled due to lack of funds.
Turnpike to build $632 million Southern Beltway extension (http://www.paturnpike.com/press/2012/20121221123613.htm)
Seems pretty solid this stretch is gonna get done now. (Though until it's actually done, anything (read: lack of funding) to halt it won't surprise me). 6 years of construction for 13 miles seems a bit excessive as well.
I also would not be surprised if this is the last new stretch of Mon-Fayette/Southern Beltway project I ever see opened in my lifetime.
And finally, from the end of the release:
QuoteThe project cost of roughly $632.5 million, which includes engineering design, property acquisition, utility relocations, construction, construction management and construction inspection services, is to be funded with a mix of state tax revenue, bonding and federal loans; no toll dollars are being spent on the project
There is a bit of irony there.... a PTC road is using other funding sources, and
NOT toll dollars to be built, while Act 44 forces the PTC to hand over large sums of toll revenue every year to be used on non-PTC roads.
From the PTC's press release (http://www.paturnpike.com/press/2012/20121221123613.htm), it appears they are going forward with the plan to eliminate cash tolls starting with this segment:
QuoteToll collection on the new segment is being designed as All-Electronic Tolling (AET) in conjunction with the commission's five-year conversion to a cashless system. With AET, customers pay with E-ZPass or video tolling, where a license-plate image is captured and a toll invoice mailed to the vehicle owner. Because no brick-and-mortar tollbooths are needed, AET is less expensive to design and build. The overhead frames that house the tolling apparatus, called gantries, require less physical space and therefore fewer property acquisitions than traditional cash tollbooths.
Sounds like they're really serious about building the Southern Beltway! It'll be interesting to see what will be done with the rest of the highway from I-79 east to where it ties into PA 43, assuming it gets the green light.
It will be great to go east on US22 into Pennsylvania and then bypass Pittsburgh to the south. Greentree Hill, the Fort Pitt Tunnel, and the aggravatingly congested during a lot of the day Squirrel Hill Tunnel. Can't wait. I'll gladly pay to go around if it's anywhere near peak traffic.
Quote from: Sykotyk on December 28, 2012, 01:32:51 AM
It will be great to go east on US22 into Pennsylvania and then bypass Pittsburgh to the south. Greentree Hill, the Fort Pitt Tunnel, and the aggravatingly congested during a lot of the day Squirrel Hill Tunnel. Can't wait. I'll gladly pay to go around if it's anywhere near peak traffic.
Are you talking about yourself or on behalf of your great-grandchildren?
I hope to live long enough to see it. It's great getting to I-376 or the airport from Steubenville now with the toll road.
I'm not a fan of the 576/US22 interchange, though. I understand a cloverleaf would be tough (the hillside that is prohibitive), and direct ramps were probably very costly (especially if built to handle further expansion). But, I'm not a fan of a freeway interchanging a freeway with cross traffic. Even if separated from the main roadways.
Quote from: Sykotyk on December 30, 2012, 12:11:05 AM
I hope to live long enough to see it. It's great getting to I-376 or the airport from Steubenville now with the toll road.
I'm not a fan of the 576/US22 interchange, though. I understand a cloverleaf would be tough (the hillside that is prohibitive), and direct ramps were probably very costly (especially if built to handle further expansion). But, I'm not a fan of a freeway interchanging a freeway with cross traffic. Even if separated from the main roadways.
It's a Pennsylvania thing. I-476 at US 1 (originally planned with all grade separations, scaled down)
Quote from: Sykotyk on December 30, 2012, 12:11:05 AM
I hope to live long enough to see it. It's great getting to I-376 or the airport from Steubenville now with the toll road.
I'm not a fan of the 576/US22 interchange, though. I understand a cloverleaf would be tough (the hillside that is prohibitive), and direct ramps were probably very costly (especially if built to handle further expansion). But, I'm not a fan of a freeway interchanging a freeway with cross traffic. Even if separated from the main roadways.
Isn't that some variation of a "volleyball" interchange?
does anyone know the map links to the route of the proposed Southern Beltway?
Quote from: hbelkins on December 30, 2012, 03:27:33 PM
Quote from: Sykotyk on December 30, 2012, 12:11:05 AM
I hope to live long enough to see it. It's great getting to I-376 or the airport from Steubenville now with the toll road.
I'm not a fan of the 576/US22 interchange, though. I understand a cloverleaf would be tough (the hillside that is prohibitive), and direct ramps were probably very costly (especially if built to handle further expansion). But, I'm not a fan of a freeway interchanging a freeway with cross traffic. Even if separated from the main roadways.
Isn't that some variation of a "volleyball" interchange?
Yep. Ever seen a Volleyball DPUI? It's called a diamond :P
Quote from: Strider on December 30, 2012, 07:21:23 PMdoes anyone know the map links to the route of the proposed Southern Beltway?
I was going to post a link to the map at the Turnpike site, but the only thing that comes up is the Network Solutions domain holder page.
Now, the major question is, will this become I-576 when it's connected to I-79 since it will connect to an Interstate on each end. :sombrero:
Looks like whatever was going on with their domain has been corrected.
Map of the proposed route (http://www.paturnpike.com/monfaysb/22to79/map.htm).
Quote from: PAHighways on December 30, 2012, 11:54:17 PM
Looks like whatever was going on with their domain has been corrected.
Map of the proposed route (http://www.paturnpike.com/monfaysb/22to79/pdf/Map_2.pdf).
That's only the middle part. (they split it into 3 different PDF's). Here's the page that has the links to all three of them:
http://www.paturnpike.com/monfaysb/22to79/map.htm
Quote from: hbelkins on December 30, 2012, 03:27:33 PM
Quote from: Sykotyk on December 30, 2012, 12:11:05 AM
I hope to live long enough to see it. It's great getting to I-376 or the airport from Steubenville now with the toll road.
I'm not a fan of the 576/US22 interchange, though. I understand a cloverleaf would be tough (the hillside that is prohibitive), and direct ramps were probably very costly (especially if built to handle further expansion). But, I'm not a fan of a freeway interchanging a freeway with cross traffic. Even if separated from the main roadways.
Isn't that some variation of a "volleyball" interchange?
Currently, it's a half volleyball as a result of the highway dead ending there. It will be a full voleyball oncethe new toll road is completed.
Quote from: Henry on December 22, 2012, 02:44:36 PM
Sounds like they're really serious about building the Southern Beltway! It'll be interesting to see what will be done with the rest of the highway from I-79 east to where it ties into PA 43, assuming it gets the green light.
Of course they are 'serious' in wanting to build it. Having the money - and in the case of the 51 to 376 section public support - to build and complete the highway is another thing.
An aerial shot of the stub "volleyball" facing eastward on 22 can be seen here (http://www.paturnpike.com/monfaysb/22to79/).
The first contract that will be awarded will be for construction of the mainline bridges (third tier).
That link is redirecting to a blank page at http://fwdservice.com/.
Quote from: hbelkins on December 31, 2012, 05:21:42 PM
That link is redirecting to a blank page at http://fwdservice.com/.
Working at the moment.
Not here. And I tried with Chrome, Firefox and Safari.
Try it now.
It worked that time. Don't know why it didn't beforehand.
Quote from: hbelkins on December 31, 2012, 07:50:28 PM
It worked that time. Don't know why it didn't beforehand.
Might be a problem with the DNS servers @ your Internet provider.
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on December 31, 2012, 08:50:09 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on December 31, 2012, 07:50:28 PM
It worked that time. Don't know why it didn't beforehand.
Might be a problem with the DNS servers @ your Internet provider.
Well, HughesNet satellite internet does blow goats.
Quote from: hbelkins on December 31, 2012, 10:53:15 PM
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on December 31, 2012, 08:50:09 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on December 31, 2012, 07:50:28 PM
It worked that time. Don't know why it didn't beforehand.
Might be a problem with the DNS servers @ your Internet provider.
Well, HughesNet satellite internet does blow goats.
They based in Alanland?
Funding uncertainty delays action on Southern Beltway (http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/local/neighborhoods-south/funding-uncertainty-delays-action-on-southern-beltway-692773/)
[sarcasm]Well... I know I'm totally surprised to read this. Completely shocked.[/sarcasm]
Quote from: CanesFan27 on December 31, 2012, 08:27:00 AM
Quote from: hbelkins on December 30, 2012, 03:27:33 PM
Quote from: Sykotyk on December 30, 2012, 12:11:05 AMI'm not a fan of the 576/US22 interchange, though. I understand a cloverleaf would be tough (the hillside that is prohibitive), and direct ramps were probably very costly (especially if built to handle further expansion). But, I'm not a fan of a freeway interchanging a freeway with cross traffic. Even if separated from the main roadways.
Isn't that some variation of a "volleyball" interchange?
Currently, it's a half volleyball as a result of the highway dead ending there. It will be a full voleyball oncethe new toll road is completed.
Gravedig!
I wish they done a British style roundabout interchange instead. Not that it'd actually be a good idea-- it'd just be more fun. :rolleyes:
The last time I was in NC, I drove the one at Green 85 and I-74 (http://goo.gl/maps/ljgrO), southbound to eastbound, and of course I hit all three traffic lights despite the light traffic. With a roundabout there, I wouldn't have had to stop.
Presumably the one in NC was built because of the proximity to other interchanges, but I don't see any nearby interchanges at 576/22. They did it just to save money, then?
Turnpike Commission awards two Southern Beltway contracts (http://triblive.com/news/adminpage/5410637-74/commission-construction-project#axzz2qJg7O6y8)
Looks like they'll be some work going on this construction season.
Though I was hoping for a more informative article.
Here's the PTC's press release: Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission Awards Contracts for Southern Beltway Projects (http://www.paturnpike.com/press/2014/20140113154415.htm)
So when are they going to finish work on the mainline? Never?
That sounds about right.
IIRC, last years aborted effort to resume work had them starting the mainline with the long bridge over the volleyball not beginning until 14 months after that, they were for an interim period going to have thru traffic use the volleyball ramps for a good 18 months before the bridge would be complete. Now the plan appears to begin the mainline bridge first.
There is a brisk discussion on City Data by those now making plans to move to Stubenville and Weirton to escape high PA property taxes but still keep their jobs at Southpointe stating that the expected 35 min commute from Weirton will be less than the drive from the city.
it's hardly worth it to make such a move.
Turnpike commission: Southern Beltway takes priority over Mon/Fayette plans (http://triblive.com/neighborhoods/yourmckeesport/yourmckeesportmore/5654647-74/mon-fayette-resolutions#axzz2ufL6iDj6)
The fact that they can't afford more Mon-Fayette sections probably has a lot to do with this.
Quote from: Mr_Northside on March 10, 2014, 04:52:53 PM
Turnpike commission: Southern Beltway takes priority over Mon/Fayette plans (http://triblive.com/neighborhoods/yourmckeesport/yourmckeesportmore/5654647-74/mon-fayette-resolutions#axzz2ufL6iDj6)
The fact that they can't afford more Mon-Fayette sections probably has a lot to do with this.
How about the fact that traffic is heading toward Pittsburgh and not Monroeville? Honestly, from the end of 43 to Monroeville ought to be part of 576 anyway. Complete the beltway, and these guys will stop complaining.
I noted that the PTC website has separated it's Mon-Fayette/SoBeltway page into Finished and Under construction sections, I would figure in anticipation of being an active site to keep us informed on 22 to 79. Wish there was a way to have the So Beltway go due east to the Irwin/ Pa Turnpike exit, then make the city section of 51 a true parkway.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on March 11, 2014, 10:45:43 PM
I noted that the PTC website has separated it's Mon-Fayette/SoBeltway page into Finished and Under construction sections, I would figure in anticipation of being an active site to keep us informed on 22 to 79. Wish there was a way to have the So Beltway go due east to the Irwin/ Pa Turnpike exit, then make the city section of 51 a true parkway.
I've thought about that too, but considering the Monroeville segment of the Mon-Fayette Expressway will intersect U.S. 30 in North Versailles, creating a segment to the Turnpike in North Huntingdon might be redundant. People from Westmoreland County can just use U.S. 30 to get to the Mon-Fayette Expressway.
I do believe that the Mon-Fayette Expressway needs to connect to the Pennsylvania Turnpike, but I think it's better off doing so by extending north of the Parkway East. Currently, they've designed the northern terminus of the Mon-Fayette Expressway at the Parkway East, which means that eastbound Turnpike traffic that wanted to access the Mon-Fayette Expressway would have to use the Parkway East, creating an extra movement. There's very little development along Thompson Run north of the Parkway East, so creating a direct interchange between the Mon-Fayette Expressway and the Turnpike in Plum should be relatively easy. (About a dozen houses or so near the Turnpike would have to be acquired.)
Construction is now underway (http://triblive.com/news/adminpage/6088290-74/beltway-southern-million#axzz31Y5HDz4O) between U.S. 22 and I-79.
Overall, I'm undecided about this project. On one hand, I echo Jake Haulk's opinion that widening the Parkways East and West is much more necessary. On the other hand, the South Beltway would improve the piss-poor east/west mobility across Pittsburgh's southern suburbs. Also, this project is the domain of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, whereas the Parkways East and West are the domain of PennDOT, so widening the Parkways East and West would be PennDOT's responsibility.
We'll see five years from now, when the Southern Beltway is expected to be completed to I-79.
If you go to the PennDOT District 11 page, there is a press release involving multiple public hearings for a major investment study for the Parkway east. I read the above link and if the ADT figures for the Parkway east are true, and I doubt they are, that would make the ADT similar to 1980 levels.
Quote from: Henry on May 14, 2014, 03:34:31 PM
We'll see five years from now, when the Southern Beltway is expected to be completed to I-79.
I think it'd be better to judge the project when it's built all the way to the Mon-Fayette Expressway. That'd be when it's most useful for people trying to travel east or west across the southern suburbs. All the segment from U.S. 22 to I-79 would do is enhance Southpointe, and open up land near there and the airport to commercial and light industrial use.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on May 14, 2014, 06:50:41 PM
If you go to the PennDOT District 11 page, there is a press release involving multiple public hearings for a major investment study for the Parkway east. I read the above link and if the ADT figures for the Parkway east are true, and I doubt they are, that would make the ADT similar to 1980 levels.
Are you saying that the average daily traffic volumes are higher than what the article says? I remember the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission stating in a multimodal transportation study from 2002 that the Parkway West carries more than double the amount of traffic that it was designed for.
I am saying I lived in Pittsburgh around 1981 when they did the big rebuild, at that time the claimed ADT was 80,000. The linked news article says the PWE has a 73K ADT now, I was surprised by that.
I bet the segment of the South Beltway between Pittsburgh International Airport and I-79 will soon become "energy alley" due to the cluster of energy companies in Southpointe. This is one of many reasons why I believe that most of the population and economic growth in the Pittsburgh suburbs in the coming decades will occur west of the city, from Cranberry to Cecil.
Nice pics Hoss; I love the burgundy beams the PTC is using for this segment.
Quote from: Gnutella on November 06, 2014, 02:51:59 PM
I bet the segment of the South Beltway between Pittsburgh International Airport and I-79 will soon become "energy alley" due to the cluster of energy companies in Southpointe. This is one of many reasons why I believe that most of the population and economic growth in the Pittsburgh suburbs in the coming decades will occur west of the city, from Cranberry to Cecil.
There sure is a lot of green space along that stretch of I-79. I wouldn't be surprised to see it get developed in a timely fashion.
Quote from: Gnutella on November 06, 2014, 02:51:59 PM
I bet the segment of the South Beltway between Pittsburgh International Airport and I-79 will soon become "energy alley" due to the cluster of energy companies in Southpointe. This is one of many reasons why I believe that most of the population and economic growth in the Pittsburgh suburbs in the coming decades will occur west of the city, from Cranberry to Cecil.
It's seemed consistently this way over the 18 years I've been periodically visiting Pittsburgh–growing suburbs on the west, abandoning them to the east. Terribly inefficient.
Quote from: JawnwoodS96 on November 06, 2014, 09:21:41 PM
Nice pics Hoss; I love the burgundy beams the PTC is using for this segment.
That's not burgundy. They're unpainted, pre-oxidized steel. IOW, the beams are rust-colored.
Quote from: qguy on November 07, 2014, 08:48:25 AMThat's not burgundy. They're unpainted, pre-oxidized steel. IOW, the beams are rust-colored.
Hmm, I see; it's still more aesthetically pleasing than many other beams, in my opinion.
Quote from: Pete from Boston on November 06, 2014, 09:45:43 PM
It's seemed consistently this way over the 18 years I've been periodically visiting Pittsburgh– growing suburbs on the west, abandoning them to the east. Terribly inefficient.
There are still some suburbs growing in the east (Most notably North Huntingdon and Murrysville), but in general people are trending toward the west. Not too certain why this is; while there are some bad areas out east (Penn Hills) there are many places that are still quite fine (Monroeville and Plum).
http://www.observer-reporter.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20151002/NEWS01/151009861 (http://www.observer-reporter.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20151002/NEWS01/151009861)
The article itself is a bit older now - from last October 2nd- but it has the only aerial view of the new bridges over 22 that I've seen so far (since the PTC doesn't have any of that good stuff on their site for this project)
Have they even awarded the contract for the rest of the segment?
I guess it consists of multiple contracts - The article mentioned that "one of the last" ones was awarded.
Progress being made in Southern Beltway construction (http://www.post-gazette.com/news/transportation/2016/01/11/Progress-being-made-in-Southern-Beltway-construction/stories/201601110005)
An article from today with some information, and a photo of 576/22 from a different angle.
How is the above link for videos and junk, I really want to read it but I am tired of 200MB thumbnails of Penn State BB games that seem to always be on the PGH trib on line links.
I'm not sure... I have a lot of stuff blocked by browser plug-ins.
It looks like the target completion date of 2019 will be reached for the part that will take the road to I-79. East of there, we'll see what happens to it, since the Mon-Fayette Expressway will not serve downtown Pittsburgh as originally planned, and major NIMBYism exists in those parts anyway.
I think the 576 designation should end where the Southern Beltway and Mon-Fayette Expressway will intersect, and the two routes should not be co-designated from that point to the Mon-Fayette's proposed northern terminus.
http://www.post-gazette.com/news/transportation/2016/12/18/Construction-to-ebgin-in-January-on-next-phase-of-Southern-Beltway/stories/201612190004 (http://www.post-gazette.com/news/transportation/2016/12/18/Construction-to-ebgin-in-January-on-next-phase-of-Southern-Beltway/stories/201612190004)
3 years seems like a long time, but that seems to be PTC S.O.P. At least they're doing work on it.
-- Fixed the URL. -rmf67
Quote from: Mr_Northside on December 20, 2016, 03:48:59 PM
http://www.post-gazette.com/news/transportation/2016/12/18/Construction-to-ebgin-in-January-on-next-phase-of-Southern-Beltway/stories/201612190004 (http://www.post-gazette.com/news/transportation/2016/12/18/Construction-to-ebgin-in-January-on-next-phase-of-Southern-Beltway/stories/201612190004)
3 years seems like a long time, but that seems to be PTC S.O.P. At least they're doing work on it.
-- Fixed the URL. -rmf67
When the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has to give away half its revenue to fund stuff that has nothing to do with the Turnpike, it can't afford to do anything at a fast pace.
It sucks that it won't have the spur into the city, but it really should continue east to the Turnpike and really be a southern beltway. Pittsburgh really lacks viable arteries, especially at interstate standard and even parts of its interstate of substandard.
For those who think this road is a waste, I was on 79N a few Saturdays ago and it was crowded from 70 all the way to 376. Hopefully this will peel off some airport traffic when done.
And also any traffic to/from the south areas to that massive new Ethane Cracker plant Shell is building in Beaver County. (though that traffic does not exist yet on I-79 to compare to)
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on October 12, 2017, 12:03:52 PM
For those who think this road is a waste, I was on 79N a few Saturdays ago and it was crowded from 70 all the way to 376. Hopefully this will peel off some airport traffic when done.
I-70 needs to be widened to six lanes for its entire length from I-70 to I-376. As it is now, there's a lane drop at PA 50 in Bridgeville.
Quote from: JawnwoodS96 on November 07, 2014, 11:36:40 AMThere are still some suburbs growing in the east (Most notably North Huntingdon and Murrysville), but in general people are trending toward the west. Not too certain why this is...
Two factors:
1. Proximity to I-79
2. Generally newer construction
Given how functionally obsolete I-376 is, and how difficult mobility is in the Pittsburgh area, proximity to a modern, toll-free Interstate is a major selling point. Also, many of the eastern suburbs in Allegheny County have dated construction that lacks the amenities that suburban homebuyers expect today, so they're not as desirable. The western suburbs tend to be more contemporary and more desirable.
Squirrel Hill Tunnel and traffic problems along the Parkway East (I-376 east of downtown Pittsburgh) are a big reason why development is going elsewhere. Even places that are closer in have a slower or more unpleasant commute coming from the east because of these factors.
Bids for the last contract for 22 to 79, the 79 interchange, has been opened. It was $25 million under estimate.
Once the US 22-to-Interstate 79 section of 576 is completed, do they have an idea on when the Interstate 79-to-State Highway 43 portion might be constructed? Or should I wait another 10 to 20 years before I ask that question again?
Probably just wait another 10 years.
Maybe 30 or 40.
It appears that the segment of the Southern Beltway immediately south of 22 is near done to the next exit south. Do you think the PTC will open that segment or wait until it's all done down to 79 in a few years.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on July 11, 2019, 09:42:18 PM
It appears that the segment of the Southern Beltway immediately south of 22 is near done to the next exit south. Do you think the PTC will open that segment or wait until it's all done down to 79 in a few years.
They did open the part of Turnpike 43 between 70 and Exit 39 before the rest to 51, but who knows.
SM-G965U
I'm pretty sure everything I've read since they started constructions was that they were going to open US-22 <-> I-79 all at once when it's all done.
Quote from: Mr_Northside on July 12, 2019, 02:21:37 PM
I'm pretty sure everything I've read since they started constructions was that they were going to open US-22 <-> I-79 all at once when it's all done.
There was a recent Post-Gazette article (within the past month) that said waiting until it was all done to I-79 was still the plan.
Quote from: Bitmapped on July 12, 2019, 10:13:35 PM
Quote from: Mr_Northside on July 12, 2019, 02:21:37 PM
I'm pretty sure everything I've read since they started constructions was that they were going to open US-22 <-> I-79 all at once when it's all done.
There was a recent Post-Gazette article (within the past month) that said waiting until it was all done to I-79 was still the plan.
And they're starting the I-79 bridge work tonight (i.e. digging under the road to build bridges over the Southern Beltway)
Are they maintaining 2 lanes each way on 79? Are the new bridges able to carry 3 lanes each way for future needs?
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on July 17, 2019, 12:19:24 AM
Are they maintaining 2 lanes each way on 79? Are the new bridges able to carry 3 lanes each way for future needs?
Yes, they are maintaining 2 lanes each way on I-79. At least the southbound bridge will have to be 3 lanes + full shoulders to be able to do temporary duty with 4 lanes of traffic. Since the existing 3-lane section ends at the next exit north, I would hope PennDOT builds both bridges to handle 3 lanes + shoulders or at least includes provisions to allow for easy widening.
When the Meadow Lands interchange about 10 miles south was reconstructed around a decade ago, new overpasses were built over Manifold Road. Northbound was 3 lanes + full shoulders so it could carry 4 lanes of construction traffic. Southbound is 2 lanes + full shoulders, which presumably could be restriped as 3 lanes or widened.
Google satellite imagery has been updated for the Southern Beltway, also shows Freedom Rd over the Turnpike work, they did not do all of metro Pittsburgh, still shown none of the nearly completed Comfort Inn on E Ohio Str.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on February 16, 2020, 09:02:19 PM
Google satellite imagery has been updated for the Southern Beltway, also shows Freedom Rd over the Turnpike work, they did not do all of metro Pittsburgh, still shown none of the nearly completed Comfort Inn on E Ohio Str.
Impressive ... I didn't know how far the construction had progressed, almost all of it is under construction between US-22 and I-79.
I count about 8 miles of concrete pavement placed.
The 3-level diamond interchange between US-22 and PA-576 -- is that going to be upgraded to a free-flowing interchange in the future? It will initially have 4 at-grade intersections between the ramps.
Quote from: Bitmapped on July 17, 2019, 09:43:28 AM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on July 17, 2019, 12:19:24 AM
Are they maintaining 2 lanes each way on 79? Are the new bridges able to carry 3 lanes each way for future needs?
Yes, they are maintaining 2 lanes each way on I-79. At least the southbound bridge will have to be 3 lanes + full shoulders to be able to do temporary duty with 4 lanes of traffic. Since the existing 3-lane section ends at the next exit north, I would hope PennDOT builds both bridges to handle 3 lanes + shoulders or at least includes provisions to allow for easy widening.
When the Meadow Lands interchange about 10 miles south was reconstructed around a decade ago, new overpasses were built over Manifold Road. Northbound was 3 lanes + full shoulders so it could carry 4 lanes of construction traffic. Southbound is 2 lanes + full shoulders, which presumably could be restriped as 3 lanes or widened.
It appears that there was
foresight (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.2108207,-80.2259399,3a,75y,55.04h,98.4t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1srdZ8dSwOwKYwSX5l9OpBpw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) on that segment of I-79, based on the
piers (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.2110457,-80.2256829,3a,75y,243.73h,90.21t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s44-z26Y3KHYhobq5QM4w1w!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo0.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3D44-z26Y3KHYhobq5QM4w1w%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D155.55145%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i13312!8i6656) at the Manifold Road overpass. However, it appears that the overpasses at the Meadow Lands interchange itself
will need to be replaced (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.2107596,-80.2293101,3a,75y,94.12h,88.84t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1ssxc3JWwa0Q7VcegdjJuboA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656). The concrete through and immediately to the south of the interchange looks older than the concrete north of the interchange, though, so I wonder if that segment was reconstructed in the late 1980s with the I-70/I-79 north junction.
What is disappointing is that the longest duration contract, the interchange with 79 was started last. Now we will have 60% of the project complete and sitting unused for 2 years.
Quote from: Gnutella on February 17, 2020, 04:39:27 AM
It appears that there was foresight (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.2108207,-80.2259399,3a,75y,55.04h,98.4t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1srdZ8dSwOwKYwSX5l9OpBpw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656) on that segment of I-79, based on the piers (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.2110457,-80.2256829,3a,75y,243.73h,90.21t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s44-z26Y3KHYhobq5QM4w1w!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo0.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3D44-z26Y3KHYhobq5QM4w1w%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D155.55145%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i13312!8i6656) at the Manifold Road overpass.
Can I offer a reason for why there is space for three lanes over this bridge but only two for the other direction. The bridge is on a tight left curve. Over here there is extra width in the median on the outside of tight bends to increase forward visibility. Could this be the reason for the wider bridge rather than to add an extra lane?
During the reconstruction of the highway, the northbound bridges served two-way traffic and were built to accommodate four total lanes of traffic. The southbound bridge does not exhibit any widened shoulders and when looking underneath the highway, there are no cut-outs for additional girder support without some engineering and reconstruction.
Any word on the schedule for the Section 1 segment between I-79 and PA-43?
I wonder if they have selected the Green Alternative.
I-79 to Mon/Fayette Expressway Section 1 Green Alternative Photo Presentation
http://www.traffic.info-quest.org/Paturnpike/green_rev5.pdf
There is a small split in the Green Alternative that occurs between McMurray Road and US 19, so it has ambiguity in that regard, and is the only one with such a feature. However, I do think that it makes the most sense, as it takes the most direct path to the Mon-Fayette.
Quote from: Beltway on February 16, 2020, 09:49:57 PM
The 3-level diamond interchange between US-22 and PA-576 -- is that going to be upgraded to a free-flowing interchange in the future? It will initially have 4 at-grade intersections between the ramps.
I doubt it..... And that's just talking about "ever" - I'd count on the current interchange for probably *at least* the next 30 years.
Is Fort Cherry Road being extended to PA 980/Robinson Highway to serve as an interchange connection? Also, what's going on just north of that? Did they not secure the land yet?
Quote from: X99 on April 13, 2020, 11:23:55 PM
Is Fort Cherry Road being extended to PA 980/Robinson Highway to serve as an interchange connection? Also, what's going on just north of that? Did they not secure the land yet?
The PA Turnpike's website refers to it as the Fort Cherry Connector Road. (https://www.patpconstruction.com/southern_beltway/55a2.aspx)
Off topic question:. I have to go to Pittsburgh on an emergency driving a rental car. I will need to drive PA 43 between 70 and 40, are they still collecting cash tolls.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on September 28, 2020, 12:27:01 PM
Off topic question:. I have to go to Pittsburgh on an emergency driving a rental car. I will need to drive PA 43 between 70 and 40, are they still collecting cash tolls.
No they are not. The entire PA Turnpike System is entirely permanently AET. (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=419.msg2505327#msg2505327)
Resurrecting an old topic, but...
I've seen differing estimates of when 576 will be complete between US 22 and I-79. Most articles say fall 2021, but the Wikipedia entry for this road says that weather and other factors pushed the completion closer to summer 2022. Does anyone have any current information on this project?
Quote from: chays on February 20, 2021, 10:29:13 PM
Resurrecting an old topic, but...
I've seen differing estimates of when 576 will be complete between US 22 and I-79. Most articles say fall 2021, but the Wikipedia entry for this road says that weather and other factors pushed the completion closer to summer 2022. Does anyone have any current information on this project?
Opening in parts.
QuoteThe Southern Beltway will be open to traffic in October of 2021 with restrictions at I-79. Northbound I-79 traffic will be able to head west on the Southern Beltway and eastbound traffic on the Southern Beltway will be able to head south on I-79. All connections to and from I-79 will be open in 2022.
from: https://www.patpconstruction.com/southern_beltway/22to79/
Assuming the connection to Morganza Road (Exit 19) will be included in the 2022 openings and will not be part of the 2021 openings.
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on February 20, 2021, 11:10:21 PM
Quote from: chays on February 20, 2021, 10:29:13 PM
Resurrecting an old topic, but...
I've seen differing estimates of when 576 will be complete between US 22 and I-79. Most articles say fall 2021, but the Wikipedia entry for this road says that weather and other factors pushed the completion closer to summer 2022. Does anyone have any current information on this project?
Opening in parts.
QuoteThe Southern Beltway will be open to traffic in October of 2021 with restrictions at I-79. Northbound I-79 traffic will be able to head west on the Southern Beltway and eastbound traffic on the Southern Beltway will be able to head south on I-79. All connections to and from I-79 will be open in 2022.
from: https://www.patpconstruction.com/southern_beltway/22to79/
Assuming the connection to Morganza Road (Exit 19) will be included in the 2022 openings and will not be part of the 2021 openings.
It's a pain for those around the county line (South Fayette, USC, Peters) not having a connection immediately, but at least you can travel down to Southpointe and make a U-turn (it's not too much backtracking) or travel down Route 50 to the interchange there.
Update Google imagery, shows the ramp to 79 south paved. As an aside, new imagrey for most of I70
https://www.wpxi.com/news/top-stories/first-look-new-southern-beltway-toll-road-connect-i79-pit/ZIV4PJYYMBDMXD5KQYKNFGEFJA/
Also, they said that there will be a 'free' segment between I-79 and the PA-50 interchange.
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on May 12, 2021, 10:58:42 PM
https://www.wpxi.com/news/top-stories/first-look-new-southern-beltway-toll-road-connect-i79-pit/ZIV4PJYYMBDMXD5KQYKNFGEFJA/
Also, they said that there will be a 'free' segment between I-79 and the PA-50 interchange.
That will help to take some traffic out of the I-79/PA 50 Bridgeville interchange, which has some capacity issues.
Quote from: Bitmapped on May 14, 2021, 03:01:35 PM
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on May 12, 2021, 10:58:42 PM
https://www.wpxi.com/news/top-stories/first-look-new-southern-beltway-toll-road-connect-i79-pit/ZIV4PJYYMBDMXD5KQYKNFGEFJA/
Also, they said that there will be a 'free' segment between I-79 and the PA-50 interchange.
That will help to take some traffic out of the I-79/PA 50 Bridgeville interchange, which has some capacity issues.
Not sure it will help a ton. The main movement is SB I-79 to make a right onto PA 50. Except for those who are further down Washington Pike (around the county line), it doesn't make much sense to proceed to the Southern Beltway exit. Exiting traffic from NB I-79 to PA 50 seems much less.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on March 27, 2021, 09:58:00 PM
Update Google imagery, shows the ramp to 79 south paved. As an aside, new imagrey for most of I70
It seems weird that the satellite view shows the southern most paved stretch of the highway dead end into what looks like a hill. Shouldn't the land work have been started by now for the remaining stretch?
Quote from: JoeP2 on June 09, 2021, 12:45:09 PM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on March 27, 2021, 09:58:00 PM
Update Google imagery, shows the ramp to 79 south paved. As an aside, new imagrey for most of I70
It seems weird that the satellite view shows the southern most paved stretch of the highway dead end into what looks like a hill. Shouldn't the land work have been started by now for the remaining stretch?
It has. The I-79 interchange is right on the border of where Google updated their imagery. Looks like they got new imagery for Washington County but not Allegheny.
Quote from: Bitmapped on June 09, 2021, 04:37:04 PM
Quote from: JoeP2 on June 09, 2021, 12:45:09 PM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on March 27, 2021, 09:58:00 PM
Update Google imagery, shows the ramp to 79 south paved. As an aside, new imagrey for most of I70
It seems weird that the satellite view shows the southern most paved stretch of the highway dead end into what looks like a hill. Shouldn't the land work have been started by now for the remaining stretch?
It has. The I-79 interchange is right on the border of where Google updated their imagery. Looks like they got new imagery for Washington County but not Allegheny.
Actually the imagery is accurate, I was there 8 months ago for my dads burial, at that point the new Morgan Rd Bridge over the future beltway had just opened and excavation for the beltway interchange and mainline east of 79 did not really start until around November 1.
Although this will likely never happen, the author of the Pennsylvania Highways website believes that if PA Turnpike 576 were to "truly" be a bypass of Pittsburgh's eastern suburbs, the Southern Beltway's eventual eastern terminus would be, not at PA Turnpike 43, but at the mainline Pennsylvania Turnpike between Exit 67 and 75: https://www.pahighways.com/toll/PATurnpike576.html. What do the rest of you think about this?
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on June 09, 2021, 09:57:34 PM
Quote from: Bitmapped on June 09, 2021, 04:37:04 PM
Quote from: JoeP2 on June 09, 2021, 12:45:09 PM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on March 27, 2021, 09:58:00 PM
Update Google imagery, shows the ramp to 79 south paved. As an aside, new imagrey for most of I70
It seems weird that the satellite view shows the southern most paved stretch of the highway dead end into what looks like a hill. Shouldn't the land work have been started by now for the remaining stretch?
It has. The I-79 interchange is right on the border of where Google updated their imagery. Looks like they got new imagery for Washington County but not Allegheny.
Actually the imagery is accurate, I was there 8 months ago for my dads burial, at that point the new Morgan Rd Bridge over the future beltway had just opened and excavation for the beltway interchange and mainline east of 79 did not really start until around November 1.
Where is the dead end? The whole freeway is paved on my end.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51241422804_85c536bbd8_o.png)
PA Turnpike 576 (https://flic.kr/p/2m52FLY) by Jake Root (https://www.flickr.com/photos/62537709@N03/), on Flickr
Jake, note the are to the SE, where the excavation parraells 79, not the over crossing of both 79 and 576 for Morgan Rd. As of last fall, though the Morgan Rd bridge existed, the trench for 576 abruptly ended there.
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on June 11, 2021, 04:44:19 PM
Jake, note the are to the SE, where the excavation parraells 79, not the over crossing of both 79 and 576 for Morgan Rd. As of last fall, though the Morgan Rd bridge existed, the trench for 576 abruptly ended there.
I think I was trying to figure out what
JoeP2 meant when he was talking about dead-ending into a hill. There is still work to do around the 79/576 junction, but I didn't see in jarring dead-ends.
By the way, I am sorry for your loss. Condolences to you and your family.
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 11, 2021, 03:14:02 PM
Although this will likely never happen, the author of the Pennsylvania Highways website believes that if PA Turnpike 576 were to "truly" be a bypass of Pittsburgh's eastern suburbs, the Southern Beltway's eventual eastern terminus would be, not at PA Turnpike 43, but at the mainline Pennsylvania Turnpike between Exit 67 and 75: https://www.pahighways.com/toll/PATurnpike576.html. What do the rest of you think about this?
Better idea: Extend PA 43 north of I-376 to the Turnpike between exits 48 and 57. It can follow Thompson Run for most of its path.
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 11, 2021, 03:14:02 PM
Although this will likely never happen, the author of the Pennsylvania Highways website believes that if PA Turnpike 576 were to "truly" be a bypass of Pittsburgh's eastern suburbs, the Southern Beltway's eventual eastern terminus would be, not at PA Turnpike 43, but at the mainline Pennsylvania Turnpike between Exit 67 and 75: https://www.pahighways.com/toll/PATurnpike576.html. What do the rest of you think about this?
I think you should ask Jeff Kitsko, who maintains that website.
Quote from: jakeroot on June 11, 2021, 05:14:57 PM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on June 11, 2021, 04:44:19 PM
Jake, note the are to the SE, where the excavation parraells 79, not the over crossing of both 79 and 576 for Morgan Rd. As of last fall, though the Morgan Rd bridge existed, the trench for 576 abruptly ended there.
I think I was trying to figure out what JoeP2 meant when he was talking about dead-ending into a hill. There is still work to do around the 79/576 junction, but I didn't see in jarring dead-ends.
I figured out the difference. I always look at Google satellite view in global view mode because I like be able to move the map in its various 3d angles etc.
I had no idea that it was not consistent with the standard satellite view.
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 11, 2021, 03:14:02 PM
Although this will likely never happen, the author of the Pennsylvania Highways website believes that if PA Turnpike 576 were to "truly" be a bypass of Pittsburgh's eastern suburbs, the Southern Beltway's eventual eastern terminus would be, not at PA Turnpike 43, but at the mainline Pennsylvania Turnpike between Exit 67 and 75: https://www.pahighways.com/toll/PATurnpike576.html. What do the rest of you think about this?
Wasn't the original intent to go from the airport to somewhere near the turnpike (and a spur into the city)?
It appears both I-79 roadways are now open to traffic. Restrictions remain, especially around Southpointe, but it's a sign things are getting closer to the end.
PA Turnpike 43, here we come!
Looks like the opening is nearing. Tucked away on the construction page is an invite to the "Community Day" on October 9, when you can bike/walk a five-mile stretch from PA 50 on west.
https://www.patpconstruction.com/southern_beltway/22to79/community-day.aspx
Quote from: MASTERNC on September 20, 2021, 03:55:02 PM
Looks like the opening is nearing. Tucked away on the construction page is an invite to the "Community Day" on October 9, when you can bike/walk a five-mile stretch from PA 50 on west.
https://www.patpconstruction.com/southern_beltway/22to79/community-day.aspx
Which is right where we ended the Pittsburgh meet back in 2019!
And the road will open October 15, though not all ramps at I-79 will be open (my recollection is that ramps to and from Washington will be open).
https://observer-reporter.com/news/localnews/southern-beltway-toll-road-to-open-oct-15/article_f510e1ea-1c87-11ec-be4d-7f97b341ef36.html
They just had the open house today. (Sadly, I couldn't attend due to car issues.)
https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2021/10/09/pedestrian-bicycles-southern-beltway-preview/
https://www.post-gazette.com/news/transportation/2021/10/09/Pennsylvania-Turnpike-allows-community-sneak-peek-open-section-Southern-Beltway-October-15/stories/202110090052
Also, several pictures of the new signage here:
https://www.post-gazette.com/news/transportation/2021/10/08/Southern-Beltway-new-highway-Pennsylvania-Turnpike-Allegheny-County-Washington-County-Pittsburgh-International-Airport/stories/202110100022
Also shows that going WB on PA-TPK-576, the I-79 ramps will be split numbered, 18 for SB I-79 & 19 for NB I-79.
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on October 10, 2021, 12:03:43 AM
Also shows that going WB on PA-TPK-576, the I-79 ramps will be split numbered, 18 for SB I-79 & 19 for NB I-79.
I just noticed that on the PTC toll calculator webpage. I don't like it. If they're ramps for the same highway in the same interchange complex, number them 18A and 18B rather than completely different numbers.
Maybe this was an ASTHO requirement since the 2 halves of the interchange are way apart
Today's the big day...
https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2021/10/15/southern-beltway-set-to-open-to-traffic-friday/
Has anyone clarified what the exit number from I-79 is? Wikipedia states Exit 49, but I cannot find any further evidence on that.
They went with the 1980's spec used at 79/80 and put "junction" in the exit tab using small Clearview letters 😃
Quote from: 74/171FAN on October 15, 2021, 01:28:06 PM
Has anyone clarified what the exit number from I-79 is? Wikipedia states Exit 49, but I cannot find any further evidence on that.
I got clarification that it is Exit 49 (https://forum.travelmapping.net/index.php?topic=4088.msg25731#msg25731).
Now that the US 22 to I-79 segment is open, the remaining portion to the Mon-Fayette Expressway is slated for completion...in the 2040s.
https://www.post-gazette.com/news/transportation/2021/10/17/Pennsylvania-Turnpike-Southern-Beltway-Mon-Fayette-Expressway-long-term-projects/stories/202110170090
*Article also posted in the PA Turnpike thread.
I think you will see an accelleration of the Duquense to Monroeville section....Amazon just bought the old Eastland Mall site for a distribution center.
Southern Beltway not showing as open yet in Google Maps, which is par for the course given how long it took for the I-49 Bella Vista Bypass in Arkansas/Missouri to get marked and correctly labeled.
PA 576 now showing as open on Google Maps
So when does the 79 to Mon Fayette leg start....?
Quote from: JoeP2 on October 26, 2021, 01:08:08 PM
So when does the 79 to Mon Fayette leg start....?
In the year 3000..... :bigass:
But seriously, I don't think there's any concrete year for it to be started.
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on October 27, 2021, 12:33:27 AM
Quote from: JoeP2 on October 26, 2021, 01:08:08 PM
So when does the 79 to Mon Fayette leg start....?
In the year 3000..... :bigass:
But seriously, I don't think there's any concrete year for it to be started.
"Concrete" eh? No pun intended right?
:-D
So I drove the new portion Southern Beltway today and noticed none of the on ramps have yield signs. Were these purposely omitted for some strange reason?
Quote from: tylert120 on October 29, 2021, 12:23:02 AM
So I drove the new portion Southern Beltway today and noticed none of the on ramps have yield signs. Were these purposely omitted for some strange reason?
Everywhere I've been there's no yield sign when the ramp feeds into an auxiliary lane. In instances where the ramp feeds directly into a travel lane then a yield sign is warranted. I'd imagine that the auxiliary lanes are long enough that a yield sign isn't required. (Unless signing a yield even with a modest auxiliary lane is a PA thing I'm not accustomed to).
Quote from: I-55 on October 29, 2021, 11:43:24 AM
Quote from: tylert120 on October 29, 2021, 12:23:02 AM
So I drove the new portion Southern Beltway today and noticed none of the on ramps have yield signs. Were these purposely omitted for some strange reason?
Everywhere I've been there's no yield sign when the ramp feeds into an auxiliary lane. In instances where the ramp feeds directly into a travel lane then a yield sign is warranted. I'd imagine that the auxiliary lanes are long enough that a yield sign isn't required. (Unless signing a yield even with a modest auxiliary lane is a PA thing I'm not accustomed to).
A quick look around on Google Maps at various Turnpike and non-Turnpike interchanges shows that older interchanges with shorter acceleration lanes have yield signs, while newer construction with longer acceleration lanes don't.
I-81 in Carlisle (no yield): https://www.google.com/maps/@40.198098,-77.1591307,3a,75y,65.12h,99.07t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1svMn_VVpn12ywVpGRoprKPw!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en
PA Turnpike Carlisle interchange (no yield): https://www.google.com/maps/@40.2278876,-77.1564192,3a,75y,301.05h,100.01t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sCe0p1cQK4yjRlmT4IQFV7Q!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en
PA Turnpike Fort Littleton interchange (yield sign present): https://www.google.com/maps/@40.0508985,-77.9598533,3a,75y,187.73h,87.29t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sZdCYv20AG762v4Why-Kt4g!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en
I-78 Exit 19 (yield sign present): https://www.google.com/maps/@40.4999837,-76.1834804,3a,75y,77.42h,90t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sHfTMCi0pMIOEq59jo7KfCQ!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3DHfTMCi0pMIOEq59jo7KfCQ%26cb_client%3Dsearch.revgeo_and_fetch.gps%26w%3D96%26h%3D64%26yaw%3D77.418106%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en
I-78 Exit 35 (PA 143) with a stop sign, present before the current reconstruction began just east of here: https://www.google.com/maps/@40.5767467,-75.8895216,3a,75y,75.11h,79.41t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sBzcKUPSJHQFDjpe30Xkphg!2e0!5s20090701T000000!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en
I've been told by family that local access from Morganza Road has been opened, as is the WB ramp to I-79 north
Sounds like it opened Monday. Access to Morganza Road (EB) and the rest of I-79 will be open by June.
https://www.patpconstruction.com/southern_beltway/22to79/pdf/2021-12-20%20Traffic%20Advisory-More%20Ramp%20Connections%20with%20PA%20Turnpike%20576%20to%20Open%20in%20Washington%20and%20Allegheny%20Counties.pdf
One thing that annoys me about how PTC built the new I-79 interchange is that the ramp from I-79 NB to PaTP 576 westbound will be a left lane merge when the next segment is built: https://www.patpconstruction.com/southern_beltway/images/55c2-1/Overall%20Exhibit%20250.pdf Aside from bypass ends, I'm hard-pressed to think of other cases of left lane merges like this being built on new construction recently.
Quote from: MASTERNC on December 22, 2021, 01:08:16 PM
I've been told by family that local access from Morganza Road has been opened, as is the WB ramp to I-79 north
Thanks for the heads up, I'll update OSM with this info. :)
Street View is now up (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.4276825,-80.3193642,3a,80.6y,168.85h,90.3t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s8lSQwbBUE2UOTVwUWlU_-w!2e0!7i16384!8i8192!5m1!1e1) for the newly opened section of PA 576!
Somewhat random question: why is it numbered as an x76 when it doesn't meet I-76, instead of an x79 like PA/(I-) 379 or 479 as it directly meets I-79? Since this is numbered like a 3di (and I've heard that it's intended for it to be an interstate in the future), I thought that 3-digit child routes branching off a "3di" with the same parent 2di is only allowed when it doesn't meet any other 2di.
Quote from: SkyPesos on January 25, 2022, 02:14:24 PM
Somewhat random question: why is it numbered as an x76 when it doesn't meet I-76, instead of an x79 like PA/(I-) 379 or 479 as it directly meets I-79? Since this is numbered like a 3di (and I've heard that it's intended for it to be an interstate in the future), I thought that 3-digit child routes branching off a "3di" with the same parent 2di is only allowed when it doesn't meet any other 2di.
You mean like I-278, I-495, I-678 around New York? Or maybe I-280, I-380, I-980, around San Fran & Oakland? Or maybe I-105 in Los Angeles.
What's interesting is PA gave it 576 long before they extended I-376 past the airport and on north to I-80. Suggests either they thought it would connect to the turnpike to the east of Pittsburgh, OR they had the I-376 extension in the pipeline long before we heard about it.
I know that construction on PA 43's northern extension may start this year, but does anyone see PA 576 being extended to PA 43 anytime within the next decade?
Quote from: triplemultiplex on January 27, 2022, 01:32:37 PM
What's interesting is PA gave it 576 long before they extended I-376 past the airport and on north to I-80. Suggests either they thought it would connect to the turnpike to the east of Pittsburgh, OR they had the I-376 extension in the pipeline long before we heard about it.
I'm pretty sure it was that the I-376 extension was already in the pipeline.... that was something that was in the works in some form for some time before they passed a law to make it happen.
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on January 27, 2022, 03:27:01 PM
I know that construction on PA 43's northern extension may start this year, but does anyone see PA 576 being extended to PA 43 anytime within the next decade?
Within the
next decade.................. Maybe. I wouldn't bet a single cent on it happening at all
this decade.
Sounds like the remaining ramps open Friday. There's some residual work on I-79 left. Note they added space for a third lane northbound, which was not originally planned, but would be in preparation for widening further north around Bridgeville.
https://www.post-gazette.com/news/transportation/2022/06/19/southern-beltway-mon-fayette-expressway-pennsylvania-turnpike/stories/202206160141
I may have asked before, is there a website to monitor to see when the first Mon Fayette sections go out to bid.
Another story on the completion of PA Tpk 576 to Interstate 79: https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/southern-beltway-will-officially-connect-i-79-to-parkway-west-starting-friday/ar-AAYHt3P?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=U531&cvid=48946c8f0681406b82e1e1fdf0f67329. Now if they can just give us a date on when 576 will be extended to PA 43.
Drove the new interchange in both directions. It was amazing they built loop ramps with a 45 MPH advisory speed
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 21, 2022, 07:01:57 PM
Now if they can just give us a date on when 576 will be extended to PA 43.
2099 +/- 5 years