DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. — Route 147 in Reed Township is still closed between Route 22/322 and Route 225 after severe flooding damaged the road earlier this month.
David Thompson with Pennsylvania Department of Transportation says efforts to reopen are ongoing.
“The main goal is to stabilize the embankment, restore the stream bed, and get the roadway repaired, paved, and reopen,” Thompson said.
The road closed Aug. 9 after flooding from a nearby creek caused an embankment failure.
Crews have completed cleanup and are now in the repair phase of the project.
“Work is ongoing right now, contractors are working seven days a week, and we’re moving along nicely,” Thompson explained.
The estimated cost of repairs is not yet known, and reopening is still a few weeks away.
“We do expect to have the road open by Labor Day weekend, if not before then,” Thompson said.
In the meantime, local traffic will be detoured to Route 225. A separate detour for trucks is also available.
“We’re sending trucks north on Route 11 and 15 to the Sunbury area and then taking Route 61 south to Route 147 south,” Thompson explained.
On average, 6,400 people use Route 147 daily, according to PennDOT traffic volume data.
In a statement to FOX43, Senator Greg Rothman said,“Route 147 is a critical artery in and out of Northern Dauphin County for commuters, emergency services and commerce. My office has been in close communication with PennDOT to ensure the road is reopened as quickly and safety as possible.”
You can subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts for updates on other road closures and openings.
Thompson also recommends people check 511PA for additional route information.