Water Main Upgrades Cause Wilkes-Barre Road Closures; Detour Information Included

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jun 01, 2025

4.7

Share

Water Main Upgrades Cause Wilkes-Barre Road Closures; Detour Information Included

Wilkes-Barre residents and commuters should be prepared for temporary road closures and traffic delays as the city embarks on crucial water main upgrades. These improvements, vital for ensuring a reliable and efficient water supply for years to come, will unfortunately necessitate some disruption to daily routines. This article provides all the essential information regarding affected areas, planned closures, and suggested detours.

Project Details: A Necessary Upgrade

The Wilkes-Barre Water Authority has announced a significant investment in upgrading aging water mains throughout the city. This multi-phase project aims to replace outdated infrastructure, reducing water loss and improving water quality for residents. The first phase focuses on several key areas along Wilkes-Barre's main thoroughfares, necessitating temporary road closures. The project is expected to last approximately six months, with completion slated for late November. The Water Authority emphasizes that these upgrades are crucial for long-term water security and are committed to minimizing disruption as much as possible.

Affected Areas and Closure Schedule:

• Phase 1 (August 14th - September 15th): Sections of South Main Street between Northampton Street and East Market Street will experience intermittent closures. Expect delays, especially during peak hours.
• Phase 2 (September 16th - October 27th): Work will shift to North Washington Street between Market Street and Jackson Street. Full road closures are anticipated during certain periods.
• Phase 3 (October 28th - November 30th): The final phase will concentrate on sections of Wilkes-Barre Boulevard. Specific closure details will be released closer to the date.

Detour Information and Traffic Management:

The Wilkes-Barre Department of Public Works will implement clearly marked detours during the road closures. Drivers are urged to:

• Heed all traffic signs and barricades: Ignoring these measures could lead to fines and potentially hazardous situations.
• Plan alternate routes: Allow extra travel time, particularly during peak commuting hours. Utilize GPS navigation apps to find the most efficient detours. Check the city's official website for updated detour maps. [Link to City Website - replace with actual link]
• Exercise caution: Construction zones inherently present safety hazards. Drive slowly and be mindful of workers and equipment.

Impact on Businesses and Residents:

The Water Authority acknowledges the inconvenience these closures may cause to local businesses and residents. They are working closely with affected businesses to minimize disruption and ensure access for customers. Residents are advised to check for any potential disruptions to water service in their specific areas via the Water Authority's website or by calling their customer service hotline. [Link to Water Authority Website - replace with actual link]

Staying Informed:

For the most up-to-date information regarding road closures, detour routes, and project updates, regularly visit the Wilkes-Barre City website and the Wilkes-Barre Water Authority website. Social media updates will also be provided through the city’s official Facebook and Twitter pages. [Links to social media pages - replace with actual links]

Conclusion:

While these water main upgrades will cause temporary inconvenience, the long-term benefits for Wilkes-Barre residents are undeniable. By staying informed and planning accordingly, residents and commuters can navigate these closures effectively and contribute to the success of this vital infrastructure improvement project. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this period of essential upgrades.