The Shapiro Administration is investing over $1 billion into road and bridge improvements across East Central Pennsylvania this year, with more than $230 million allocated specifically to Berks County. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced that multiple large-scale projects will begin or continue in Berks as part of a broader effort to enhance the region’s transportation infrastructure.
PennDOT’s District 5, which includes Berks County, will oversee 54 new projects and continue 126 ongoing efforts throughout the 2025 construction season. These projects align with Governor Josh Shapiro’s plan to create a safer, more reliable transportation network.
“The roads and bridges in this region are important to every person who lives, works, and visits here,” said District 5 Executive Chris Kufro. “This investment in our transportation system is essential for a well-maintained and sustainable transportation system.”
Key projects in Berks County include the $134.8 million reconstruction of I-78, including the rehabilitation of the bridge over the Schuylkill River and upgrades to the Route 61 interchange in Tilden Township and Hamburg Borough. Additionally, PennDOT will replace the I-78 bridge over Maiden Creek and Route 143 in Greenwich Township, a project valued at $120 million.
Other notable Berks County projects scheduled for 2025 include:
$30.3 million for improvements to Route 61 in Hamburg Borough and Tilden Township, including paving and bridge rehabilitation. $21.72 million for patching and paving along I-78 in Tilden and Upper Bern townships. $13.5 million for resurfacing, drainage upgrades, and bridge maintenance on Route 61 in Tilden Township. $8.47 million for replacing the Route 183/Schuylkill Avenue bridge over the Norfolk Southern Railroad in the City of Reading.
$5.68 million for intersection improvements at Routes 12 and 73 in Ruscombmanor Township. $5.2 million for patching and paving on I-176 in New Morgan Borough and Caernarvon Township. $4.7 million for milling and paving Route 100 in Bally Borough, Colebrookdale, and Washington townships.
$4.6 million for replacing the Alleghenyville Road Bridge over I-176 in Robeson Township. $4.2 million for replacing the Weavertown Road Bridge in Amity Township.
Statewide, the Shapiro Administration reports progress in improving 12,921 miles of roadway and advancing work on over 1,100 bridges during the governor’s first two years in office. PennDOT and its industry partners repaired more poor-condition bridges in 2023 than any other state.
Motorists are reminded to be cautious in work zones throughout the county. PennDOT advises drivers to follow posted speed limits, turn on headlights, and remain alert in all active construction areas. Roadway conditions and traffic updates can be found on www.511PA.com or through the 511PA app.