HUGHESVILLE -- PennDOT started out with four plans to improve the intersection of Routes 405 and 220 in Hughesville. With community input, the state thinks it has found the one that will work the best for the business community, and at the same time alleviate traffic congestion at that intersection.
Impatient drivers in backed up traffic are typical at the intersection of Routes 405 and 220 in Hughesville.
There was no traffic when Newswatch 16 drove through where 220 and 405 intersect in Hughesville around midday. Drivers say earlier or later on in the day they could be waiting minutes just to get through this one intersection.
"It's bad especially around 4 and 6, people coming out of work and stuff from Williamsport around that area. It gets backed up all the way over the hill there," said Francis Bowman from Hughesville.
Hughesville may be another step closer to getting a whole new intersection. PennDOT is close to completing the study phase of a multimillion dollar construction project. The project started out with four different designs and now the state is ready to present the public the one it feels is best.
"The preferred alternative that we are presenting tonight had the best overall public support. It has the least amount of impacts," said Christopher Neigdig, Project Manager at PennDOT.
PennDOT's preferred plan includes a stop light, turning lanes, and moving Race Street so that it meets the intersection. Some commercial businesses may have to move in order to widen the intersection including a service station.
Business people like Carl Shultz feel that is a small price to pay, especially when eastern Lycoming County is growing with the natural gas industry.
"We have national brands interested in coming in that will economically help the growth within our community," said Shultz.
PennDOT wants to start construction in 2018.
