PennDOT's traffic management strategy for reconstruction on the main line Route 309 expressway is to keep two travel lanes open in each direction during peak travel hours wherever possible. However, traffic impacts can be expected due to the planned closure of selected interchange ramps, the narrowing and shifting of lanes, and the presence of large-scale construction activity, barriers and equipment along this heavily traveled corridor.

"Our aim is to keep motorists who are making long trips of five miles or more on Route 309," said PennDOT's District Executive Andy Warren. "Conversely, we will encourage motorists to stay off the expressway and use nearby roads when taking short, local drives."

Reducing traffic volumes on Route 309 can be achieved in several ways, using the one vehicle at a time strategy. Drivers can adjust their travel times and routes. Public transit, ride sharing (carpools & vanpools) and alternate modes of travel can be explored to improve regional mobility.

Local employers also can help by adding flexibility to their business plans. Flex time, staggered hours, work-at-home options and creative and cooperative approaches to moving employees to and from workplaces served by Route 309 will have a positive impact on traffic flow within the affected areas.

Your business, group or organization can find help in coping with upcoming construction on Route 309 at the local Transportation Management Association (TMA). The TMA's experts can discuss with you a number of concrete and time-tested strategies for individual and group transportation management. Their ideas are not think-tank theory, but practical, affordable and user-friendly tactics that have worked on similar large-scale highway reconstruction projects in the region.