No. The project will be built in phases. The following three phases are currently anticipated:
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Phase 1 Section MGP (2012-2013): Extend Lafayette Street from Ford Street to Conshohocken Road.
•
Phase 2 Section MGL (2014-2015): Improve local roads near the new interchange, including Ridge Pike, Diamond Avenue, and Fairfield Road.
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Phase 3 Section MGN (2015-2017): Reconstruct/widen existing Lafayette Street and relocate the Schuylkill River Trail.
After committing funding since 2005, the PA Turnpike Commission deferred its funding for the interchange from its Fiscal Year 2011 capital budget due to revenue problems.However, the commission may reconsider it in the future. The existing project is being designed to accommodate this future interchange.
A final phase will be the construction of the Lafayette Street interchange to the US 202 Dannehower Bridge. This will be done in the distant future when PennDOT replaces the bridge.
What are the impacts associated with the project?
The project will affect approximately 36 properties, although most will only require that a strip of ground be purchased from them.
During construction phases, temporary traffic detours and interruptions can be expected. All efforts will be made to minimize construction noise and dust. Informational meetings for the public will be held throughout design and construction to minimize inconveniences.
How much will the project cost?
The estimated cost to construct the project is $60 million, in actual year-of-expenditure figures. The costs will be shared between Montgomery County and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA):
FHWA:
$48,000,000
Montgomery County:
$12,000,000
TOTAL:
$60,000,000
What is the current schedule for the project?
Montgomery County anticipates starting construction in 2012 and completing the project in 2017.
