The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has made a change to the westbound lanes of the Bayfront Parkway (Route 4034) near the Sassafras Street Extension intersection. The changes will go into effect starting on Wednesday, April 10. 

According to PennDOT, westbound traffic will continue to be a single lane but will shift south into the unused lane. As part of the shift, PennDOT said a temporary traffic signal will be put into place at the intersection.

Additionally, there will be signs to direct bicycle and pedestrian traffic between Sassafras Street Extension and State Street to the designated path separated from the work area by barriers. 

The restrictions are expected to be in place throughout the fall in connection with Stages 1 & 2  of the Bayfront Parkway Central Corridor Improvement Project. 

PennDOT said Stage 1 includes working on retaining walls adjacent to Front Street and roundabout construction on the waterfront side of Sassafras Street Extension intersection. 

There will also be preliminary utility work and sidewalk construction. Phase 1 of construction began in fall 2023 and will be completed this spring. 

Stage 2 will include working on retaining walls adjacent to Front Street and roundabout construction on the waterfront side of the Sassafras Street Extension intersection. 

Stage 2 is expected to be completed in 2024. 

Work will include the following: 

  • Multi-use trail connecting the existing trail network, downtown, and the waterfront.
  • Overhead pedestrian bridge at Holland Street.
  • Sidewalk, crosswalk, and lighting upgrades throughout the length of the project.
  • Hybrid roundabouts at the intersections with Sassafras Street Extension and Holland Street.
  • Grade separated intersection at State Street, including a traditional signalized at-grade intersection and a path for through traffic on the Bayfront to travel below the intersection.
  • Drainage updates throughout the corridor.

More information on the project can be found on PennDOT's website.