DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. — The small move of an intersection in Swatara Township, Dauphin County could be a headache for drivers through the next two weeks.
"This is a major intersection where we have this six-legged intersection at 322," said Dave Thompson, community relations coordinator for PennDOT District 8.
It's not just that intersection; the wheels are turning on a number of improvements at the Route 322-Chambers Hill Road intersection.
The plans include an increase in the number of lanes, installing new roundabouts and adding new infrastructure, among a long list.
"They're going to turn it into a four-legged intersection and eliminate left turn lanes from 322 onto Grayson and from 322 onto Chambers Hill Road," Thompson said.
PennDOT shifted the intersection of Milroy and Grayson Roads on Monday, with plans to build a stormwater drain in its old location. The two roads now meet 400 feet to the west.
The move is a small part of the bigger project to ease congestion and improve safety, things locals like Alexis Butler believe are well overdue.
"It definitely gets congested around the rush hours, [in] the morning, afternoon, lunchtime," she said.
Similar changes have been made in the area, and many have received positive feedback in the community.
"There's already been a couple of roundabouts installed in Hershey," Butler said. "People have been zipping in and out, no problem.”
The $38.5 million project is set to be finished by 2027, and Thompson urges people to pump the brakes and have patience.
"People need to be aware that they might encounter these, and there could be some congestion [or] backups, and to drive with caution through those areas," Thompson expressed.
Eastbound Route 322 left turns will be replaced with a new jug handle and signal at Witmer Road. Three retaining walls will be built to accommodate the widening. Driver can also expect dynamic message signs and upgraded pavement markings as part of the project.