MARIA YOUNG / TIMES PHOTO
The two-year project to replace a pair of structurally deficient bridges on Holme Avenue is officially over, as PennDOT recently joined local state officials for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Onlookers included Nazareth Hospital employees, firefighters from Engine 18 and local residents.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding,” said George Dunheimer, assistant district executive for PennDOT.
The $16.7 million project began in August 2014 on a new single structure that serves more than 20,000 vehicles every day. Bicyclists and pedestrians also use the bridge, which spans Roosevelt Boulevard.
Previously, the intersection featured a circle for motorists and others to cross the Boulevard.
The project was funded by Act 89, the state’s transportation plan.
Among those in attendance were Lt. Gov. Mike Stack, state Sen. John Sabatina Jr. and Nick Graveley, chief of staff for state Rep. Ed Neilson.
Dunheimer said the new design will ease traffic congestion and make the intersection safer for everyone.
Highlights of the project, he said, are countdown timers, ornamental lights, handicapped-accessible ramps and sidewalks and a drainage system.
Gas, water, sewer, electrical and communication lines all had to be moved.
Still, the road was opened seven months early as the construction continued.
“Great job by Buckley & Co.,” Stack said of the contractor.
Sabatina was happy to see a dedicated turning lane into Nazareth Hospital, and thanked PennDOT engineers for making it happen. He said the new structure, which takes motorists and others eastbound to Holme Avenue and westbound to Solly Avenue, is a big improvement from the circle.
Graveley was pleased to see a traffic light installed at Holme Avenue and Fairfield Street, recalling how drivers would hesitate to turn or go straight at the stop signs, separated by a median, that used to be there.
Stack said Roosevelt Boulevard has turned into a “crazy and unsafe road” at spots. As for the area near Holme and the Boulevard, he said it is safe and efficient to navigate, with room for bicyclists.
“This is a great day in Northeast Philadelphia,” he said. “PennDOT is the best.” ••
Smooth travels: Mike Stack (above) said the completion of the project to replace two bridges on Holme Avenue on the Roosevelt Boulevard is “a great day for Northeast Philadelphia.” MARIA YOUNG / TIMES PHOTO
