Sponsor Spotlight: JBC Associates, Inc.
June 2024
Project Update: PA Turnpike Widening MP312-MP316
As the Pennsylvania Turnpike pushes forward with its mission to implement a Total Reconstruction of its toll road system, JBC Associates, Inc. (JBC) is providing Construction Inspection services for a 5-mile section of the turnpike from MP 312 to MP 316 (SR 100/Pottstown Pike to Valley Hill Road) in Chester County. This $214 million section is being widened from 2 to 3 lanes with full depth shoulders, bridge replacements, and retaining walls. When complete 30 lane miles will have been improved.
Currently the project is in stage 2A, where the bulk of the work for the widening occurs. Most of the excavation work is occurring in this stage, with the pushing back of slopes, placement of embankment, installing drainage basins and 11 MSE retaining walls and 1 soldier pile retaining wall. Sound Barrier walls will be installed at the end of this stage. This stage is also widening 3 mainline bridges: EB-721 (Downingtown Interchange), EB-724 (Upper Pine Creek Road) and EB-726 (Conestoga Road, SR 401). The EB -721 and EB-724 bridge widenings have the outside portions of abutments and wing walls are complete, backfilling is in progress and beams are being placed. EB-726 which carries the turnpike over Conestoga Road (SR 401) is in the process of being demolished.
One interesting component of this project is the cement stabilization of the subgrade throughout the entire project. This work is to reduce &
eliminate the need for under cuts of unstable areas and to provide a solid stable base for the estimated life of the roadway. The Turnpike is using this project to develop a new specification that can be used on all upcoming projects.
Stage 2A is anticipated to be complete by late summer/early fall of 2025 with traffic shifting to the newly constructed outside lanes. This will allow for the next stage of work - the center section of the roadway and bridges. Anticipated project construction completion is 2027.