Motorists traveling northbound on the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476) in Lehigh and Bucks counties will encounter an overnight road closure this weekend. This closure is necessary for a bridge replacement project, specifically involving the demolition and beam installation for bridge NB-349 (Tilghman Street). The work will affect traffic between the Quakertown and Lehigh Valley interchanges.
Key Takeaways
- I-476 Northbound will close between Quakertown (Exit 44) and Lehigh Valley (Exit 56).
- Closure is scheduled for Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 12 a.m. to 6 a.m.
- The project involves replacing bridge NB-349 (Tilghman Street).
- Southbound traffic on I-476 will not be affected by this closure.
- A suggested detour route will be in place for northbound travelers.
Overnight Closure for Critical Bridge Work
Pennsylvania Turnpike officials have announced the upcoming closure. The northbound lanes of the Northeast Extension (I-476) will be closed on Sunday, September 28, 2025. This closure will begin at 12 a.m. and last until 6 a.m. The affected section is located between the Quakertown Interchange (Exit 44) and the Lehigh Valley Interchange (Exit 56).
The primary reason for this temporary shutdown is the replacement of bridge NB-349, which crosses Tilghman Street. Crews need to safely demolish parts of the existing structure and install new beams. Performing this work overnight minimizes disruption to the high volume of daily traffic on this major roadway.
Project Details
- Bridge Name: NB-349 (Tilghman Street)
- Location: Lehigh and Bucks Counties, Pennsylvania
- Roadway Affected: I-476 Northbound (Northeast Extension)
- Closure Time: Sunday, September 28, 2025, 12 a.m. to 6 a.m.
- Interchanges Affected: Quakertown (Exit 44) to Lehigh Valley (Exit 56)
Wider Reconstruction Efforts
The bridge replacement is part of a larger infrastructure improvement initiative. The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is undertaking a comprehensive project to reconstruct and widen a section of the Northeast Extension. This specific project spans from milepost A53 to A57. The goal is to enhance safety and improve traffic flow in this busy corridor.
According to PA Turnpike officials, these improvements are vital for the long-term integrity and capacity of the roadway. Modernizing bridges and expanding lanes helps accommodate current and future traffic demands. This type of work often requires temporary closures to ensure worker and public safety.
"These infrastructure projects are essential for maintaining a safe and efficient transportation network across the state," a PA Turnpike representative stated. "We aim to complete this critical work with minimal long-term impact on motorists."
Traffic Impacts and Detour Information
Only northbound traffic will be affected by this overnight closure. Motorists traveling southbound on I-476 will not experience any delays or detours related to this specific work. This allows for one direction of travel to remain open, reducing overall congestion.
Drivers planning to travel northbound between Quakertown and Lehigh Valley during the specified hours should plan for extra travel time. They should also follow the posted detour signs. The suggested detour route will guide traffic around the closed section of the highway.
Importance of I-476
The Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476) serves as a critical link for commuters and commercial traffic. It connects the Philadelphia metropolitan area with the Lehigh Valley and beyond, extending into northeastern Pennsylvania. This roadway is a vital artery for regional commerce and travel, making its maintenance and improvement a high priority for state transportation agencies.
Planning Your Travel
Motorists are advised to check real-time traffic conditions before heading out. Information is available through various channels, including the PA Turnpike's website, mobile apps, and local news broadcasts. Digital message boards along the highway will also display current closure and detour information.
For those needing to travel through the area on Sunday morning, September 28, between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m., considering alternative routes or adjusting travel times is recommended. Adhering to the detour signage is crucial for safety and to avoid potential penalties.
- Check the PA Turnpike website for updates.
- Use navigation apps for real-time traffic.
- Allow extra travel time for the detour.
- Follow all posted detour signs.
This construction work is part of ongoing efforts to modernize Pennsylvania's transportation infrastructure. While temporary inconveniences may occur, these projects contribute to safer and more efficient travel in the long run.
