PennDOT is seeking comments from the public as it plans a pavement preservation project along I-78 in Lower Saucon Township and the City of Bethlehem.
The project is scheduled to begin construction in early fall 2026 with an expected completion date in late fall 2027.
The project includes the replacement of deteriorated concrete pavement slabs along approximately two miles of I-78 westbound, starting from the bridge over Easton Road to the bridge over Redington Road in Lower Saucon Township.
In addition, PennDOT aims to carry out guide rail end treatment upgrades, pavement base drain upgrades, new pavement markings and a cleanout of select existing drainage pipes. A stormwater basin near the intersection of Countryside Lane and Easton Road will also be cleaned out, which will involve the removal of invasive plants and sedimentary deposits, and damaged right-of-way fencing along the perimeter of the basin will be replaced.
The project will be constructed using staged construction. Two lanes of traffic in each direction will be maintained on I-78 throughout construction, which may include nighttime work. Ramp traffic will be maintained during the construction of the acceleration lanes.
I-78 within the project area has an average daily traffic volume of approximately 34,000 vehicles eastbound and 34,000 vehicles westbound.
PennDOT is accepting comments through Nov. 3 on its website.