UPPER SAUCON TWP., Pa. — A major construction project is slated for a key intersection in the township.
The state Transportation Department is seeking public comment for the Route 309 at Center Valley Parkway Intersection Improvement Project.
It plans to turn the signalized intersection, through which PennDOT says tens of thousands of vehicles a day pass, into a “grade-separated interchange” — a bridge that would take Route 309 over Center Valley Parkway and West Saucon Valley Road.
The roads now are on the same level at the intersection. The divided four-lane Route 309, which runs north-south, "supports regional traffic," according to the description of the project on its website.
The change would improve the intersection's “safety and capacity,” it says on the website.
PennDOT spokesman Ron Young said the current cost estimate is $120 million to $140 million, including design engineering, right-of-way acquisition, utility relocations and construction.
The intersection of Route 309 and Center Valley Parkway is near the Promenade Saucon Valley shopping center and adjacent to the Lehigh Valley Health Network Center for Healthcare Education.
“Individuals or groups with a demonstrated interest within the project limits, surrounding businesses, and local property owners that may be affected by the proposed project are encouraged to review the displays and contact us with any questions,” PennDOT’s project description reads.
Project details
PennDOT plans to build new signalized on/off ramp intersections connecting the roads, as well as improvements to guide rails, drainage, highway lighting and pavement marking.
Construction is anticipated to begin in late 2026 and be completed by 2030.
“All schedules are subject to change,” PennDOT's website reads.
The project will be done using staged construction, and two lanes of traffic in each direction will be maintained on Route 309 throughout construction, according to the website.
The online plans display, including digital picture boards and a questionnaire, will be available to the public until Monday, Aug. 5.
Lehigh Valley Planning Commission’s Transportation Planning Committee on Thursday reviewed the plan, but did not provide any questions or comments.
