A section of Interstate 476 northbound in the Lehigh Valley will be closed this weekend. The Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension will experience a temporary shutdown early Sunday morning, September 28, 2025, to allow for critical bridge replacement work. This closure affects motorists traveling through Lehigh and Bucks counties.
The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission announced the closure, which is part of an ongoing project to replace the Tilghman Street overpass. This infrastructure upgrade is essential for future widening of the Turnpike below, aiming to improve traffic flow and safety in the long term.
Key Takeaways
- I-476 northbound will close from midnight to 6 a.m. Sunday.
- The closure is between Quakertown and Lehigh Valley interchanges.
- Detour routes will be in place for affected drivers.
- Work involves demolition and beam installation for a new overpass.
Scheduled Closure Details
The northbound lanes of Interstate 476 are scheduled to be shut down from midnight on Saturday, September 27, until 6 a.m. on Sunday, September 28. This six-hour window is critical for the project's progress. The affected segment lies between the Quakertown Interchange (Exit 44) and the Lehigh Valley Interchange (Exit 56).
Southbound traffic on the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension will not be affected by this closure. Motorists traveling south through the Lehigh Valley can expect normal conditions during this period. The focus of the work is exclusively on the northbound side.
Project Scope
- Project: Tilghman Street Overpass Replacement
- Purpose: Facilitate future Turnpike widening
- Location: Lehigh and Bucks counties, PA
- Impact: I-476 Northbound traffic only
Why the Closure is Necessary
The temporary closure is required for two main tasks: demolition work and the installation of new beams. These activities are part of replacing the Tilghman Street overpass. The existing overpass needs to be removed and rebuilt to accommodate the planned expansion of the Turnpike underneath.
According to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, these specific tasks cannot be performed safely while traffic is present on the northbound lanes. The safety of both construction crews and the traveling public is the primary reason for the overnight shutdown. The project aims to enhance the road's capacity and structural integrity.
"This overnight closure is vital for the safe and efficient progress of the Tilghman Street overpass replacement," a Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission spokesperson stated. "We appreciate the public's patience as we work to improve infrastructure for future travel needs."
Detour Information for Northbound Travelers
Drivers planning to use I-476 northbound during the closure period must follow a specific detour. This route will guide motorists around the affected section of the Turnpike. State police and Turnpike workers will be present at key points to assist drivers and ensure smooth navigation.
The recommended detour route begins at the Quakertown Interchange (Exit 44). Drivers will then follow a series of state routes and interstates before re-entering the Turnpike at the Lehigh Valley Interchange.
Background on Turnpike Widening
The Pennsylvania Turnpike system is undergoing several improvement projects across the state. These initiatives often include widening existing sections to handle increased traffic volumes. The replacement of structures like the Tilghman Street overpass is a necessary step in these larger expansion plans, ensuring that bridges can span wider roadways.
Such projects are crucial for maintaining the efficiency and safety of one of Pennsylvania's major transportation arteries, which serves thousands of commuters and commercial vehicles daily.
Detailed Detour Route
For northbound motorists, the official detour is as follows:
- Exit I-476 North at the Quakertown Interchange (Exit 44).
- Follow Route 663 North for approximately 3.3 miles.
- Turn onto Route 309 North and continue for about 9.3 miles.
- Merge onto Interstate 78 West, driving for 6.3 miles.
- Take the exit for Route 309 North again, traveling for 1.0 mile.
- Proceed onto Route 22 West for 1.1 miles.
- Finally, re-enter the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension at the Lehigh Valley Interchange (Exit 56).
Drivers should allow for extra travel time if their plans include this section of I-476 during the early morning hours on Sunday. The detour adds a significant number of miles and could increase travel duration.
Weather Contingencies and Travel Resources
All scheduled construction work, including this I-476 closure, is subject to weather conditions. Adverse weather could lead to delays or postponements of the demolition and beam installation. Travelers are advised to check for updates before heading out.
For the most current travel information, including real-time conditions and any changes to the schedule, motorists can visit 511pa.com. The 511PA Smartphone App also provides immediate access to traffic alerts and road conditions. These resources are updated regularly by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the Turnpike Commission.
Staying informed through official channels can help drivers plan their journeys effectively and avoid unexpected delays. The project team aims to complete the work as quickly and safely as possible to minimize disruption to travel.
