LOCAL

Ramp work wraps up, but more I-83 delays expected as new project begins

The ramp paving on Interstate 83 that tied up traffic in York County for more than a week was scheduled to wrap up Tuesday, July 17, but drivers can expect more delays as work begins on some sections of the southbound lanes.

Mike Crochunis, a spokesman for the state Department of Transportation, said maintenance crews started work on I-83 southbound between Exit 32 in Newberrytown and Exit 24 in Emigsville on Wednesday, July 18.

The public will soon have a chance to view plans for a project that will widen a 5-mile stretch of Interstate 83 from four to eight lanes from Market Street to North George St. John A. Pavoncello photo

More:I-83 ramp work to finish this week, more work ahead

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He said crews will likely start working north and will continue south. The work on the eight-mile stretch will most likely be done in chunks, he said.

“I would imagine they’ll be out there six to eight days,” Crochunis said.

As with all road projects, that work could be delayed because of weather.

Crews are expected to be working between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Crochunis said. He added that personnel could potentially stay later if problems arise.

Traffic will be affected, he said, adding that there could be potential for 10 to 15 minutes of delays. He recommended drivers check the 511pa.com traffic cameras before deciding to take the interstate.

Prior to the southbound lane work, crews were wrapping up milling and repaving of ramps at Exit 24. Crochunis said Tuesday that work was expected to be done that day.

The reason the work is being done during the day instead of overnight is because the PennDOT York County maintenance workers don't have the lighting for a project of this size. So for safety reasons, the work is being done during the daytime, Crochunis said.

— Reach Christopher Dornblaser at cdornblaser@yorkdispatch.com or on Twitter at @YDDornblaser.