×

Alternatives needed

State Route 220 between the Lycoming Mall exit and Hughesville was improved a few years ago. The berms were widened, safety rumble strips were added and the guide rails were substantially upgraded. With increases in truck traffic due to the gas industry and a general overall increase in traffic due to residential expansion, the upgrades were both needed and welcomed.

Overall, a great job, but one area should be considered a safety concern. The bridge at Wolf Run was narrow prior to the changes and the addition of guide rails to the existing structure on both sides of the bridge have narrowed the bridge even further to the point of being dangerous. There have been numerous accidents and the guide rails have had to be replaced several times. Some reflectors and a “Narrow Bridge” sign in both directions does not solve the problem, particularly at night when visibility is reduced. Many motorists slow down on the approach to the bridge to avoid other vehicles, particularly trucks, approaching from the opposite direction.

I have personally witnessed a sideswipe between two cars and a PennDOT snow plow strike the bridge to avoid hitting an oncoming vehicle. To make matters worse, the line down the middle is not centered which makes the northbound lane narrower than the southbound lane. Northbound vehicles routinely cross the centerline due to the inadequate clearance to the guide rail.

This section of Route 220 is a high volume, high speed road. Having unnecessary, unexpected, and severe narrowing of the road is a recipe for disaster. PennDOT needs to look at alternatives.

Monica Konyar

Hughesville

Submitted by Virtual Newsroom

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

COMMENTS

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today