PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — A major construction project is coming to a busy intersection in the South Hills.

The intersection of Routes 88 and 51 is getting a makeover.

“In fact, there’s really been no major change to that intersection in over 50 years,” PennDOT District 11 Executive Dan Cessna said.

The bridges and culverts in that area are literally crumbling. Most of this intersection is built on top of culverts.

“In fact, they are in very bad condition and the intent of this project is to replace all of those culverts,” Cessna explained.

They are also doing some congestion relief. A jug handle ramp will be built around the Rite Aid so northbound 51 traffic turning onto 88 will no longer have to make a left turn across traffic.

“Makes it somewhat simpler and it will allow for the traffic signal timing to be re-phased,” Cessna said.

Meanwhile, the mishmash of traffic lights will be replaced and modernized and some of them eliminated. The lanes will be slightly wider.

During the construction, there will be times when Route 88 traffic is restricted or detoured, but on Route 51 there will be two lanes of northbound and southbound traffic at all times.

Work begins this fall when crews will begin moving utility lines. The main construction will begin as soon as the weather breaks next spring.

The project is expected to last two years.

RELATED LINKS
More Local News
PennDOT District 11