Wilkes-Barre Road Work Schedule: Water Main Installation Impacts Traffic

Michael

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Post on Jun 01, 2025

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Wilkes-Barre Road Work Schedule: Water Main Installation Impacts Traffic

Wilkes-Barre residents and commuters should be prepared for significant traffic disruptions in the coming weeks due to a major water main installation project. The city has announced a detailed road work schedule, impacting several key thoroughfares and potentially causing delays for drivers. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the planned work, highlighting affected areas and offering advice on how to navigate the disruptions.

Project Overview: Modernizing Wilkes-Barre's Water Infrastructure

The Wilkes-Barre Municipal Water Authority (WMW) has initiated a crucial project to upgrade the city's aging water main system. This multi-phase undertaking aims to improve water quality, enhance service reliability, and reduce the frequency of water main breaks. The current phase focuses on the installation of new, larger-diameter water mains along several key roadways.

Road Closures and Detours: Key Areas Affected

The WMW has released a detailed schedule outlining specific road closures and detours. Drivers are urged to familiarize themselves with these plans before traveling in the affected areas.

Phase 1 (October 23rd - November 10th):

• South Main Street (between Market Street and Northampton Street): Expect lane closures and potential temporary road closures during this period. Detours will be clearly marked. Motorists should anticipate significant delays, particularly during peak hours.
• River Street (between Wilkes-Barre Boulevard and Northampton Street): Similar to South Main Street, expect lane closures and potential temporary closures. Local access will be maintained where possible.

Phase 2 (November 13th - November 30th):

• Public Square: Limited access to Public Square is anticipated during this phase. Pedestrian access may also be affected. Specific details regarding access restrictions will be published closer to the start date.
• North Washington Street (between Market Street and Jackson Street): Lane closures and potential temporary closures are anticipated.

Mitigation Strategies and Communication Efforts

The WMW is committed to minimizing the inconvenience caused by this necessary project. They are employing several strategies:

• Clear Signage: Well-placed signage will guide drivers through detours and inform them of the work being undertaken.
• Real-time Traffic Updates: The city will utilize social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) and its website to provide real-time updates on traffic conditions and any unexpected delays. Check the official Wilkes-Barre city website for the most up-to-date information.
• Community Engagement: The WMW is actively engaging with local businesses and residents to address any specific concerns.

Tips for Avoiding Delays:

• Plan Ahead: Allow extra travel time when traveling through the affected areas.
• Use Alternate Routes: Explore alternative routes to avoid congestion. Utilize GPS navigation apps to find the most efficient route.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check the WMW's website and social media for updates.

The Long-Term Benefits:

While the short-term impacts of this project are undeniable, the long-term benefits for the city's water infrastructure are significant. The upgraded water main system will improve water quality, enhance the reliability of service, and reduce the risk of future water main breaks.

Call to Action:

Stay informed about the Wilkes-Barre road work schedule by visiting the official city website and following their social media channels. Your cooperation is essential for the successful completion of this vital infrastructure project. Let's work together to navigate these temporary disruptions and build a better Wilkes-Barre for the future.