Lane restrictions set for I-70, Route 51 as interchange revamp proceeds, old bridge is razed

Overnight single-lane restrictions will be in place for several days on a section of Interstate 70 as crews demolish the bridge that used to carry Route 51 over the interstate in Rostraver.

The bridge is being replaced by a more complex crossing as part of a $120.7 million project to reconstruct and reconfigure the interchange at I-70 and Route 51.

I-70 lane restrictions in both directions are scheduled for 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. each day, beginning on Wednesday, according to PennDOT officials. The restrictions will be in place between the Smithton and Route 51 exits.

Weather is among factors that will determine whether contract Golden Triangle Construction is able to complete the demolition by Friday, or if the work must continue on Monday and Tuesday of next week.

A single-lane restriction on northbound Route 51 in the project area is expected to be in place much longer — through July of next year, PennDOT said.

Traffic will use the newly constructed northbound lanes while the existing southbound lanes undergo reconstruction.

Completion of the entire interchange makeover is anticipated in October 2027.

That interchange is being reformatted in a “diverging diamond” pattern.

Lanes of traffic on new twin Route 51 bridges over the interstate will switch to the opposite side of the road and back again, through intersections with traffic signals. That will allow drivers to turn left to enter the interstate without crossing opposing lanes of traffic.

Also, a 1-mile section of Route 51 will be widened, Finley Road will be relocated to form a four-way intersection at Route 981, and a left-turn lane will be added from Route 51 to Ridge Road.