Long-anticipated traffic lights at the Route 8-Route 228 intersection are going online this week, according to Middlesex Township Manager Adam Hartwig.

“We'll switch over to the new, permanent infrastructure,” Hartwig said.

The traffic signals replace existing lights and were installed with L-shaped masts planted along the roadside. West Penn Power did the electrical work last week, according to Hartwig.

The project has been many months in the making as part of the Middlesex Crossing development. The project didn't cost the township anything, although Hartwig estimated light installation typically runs in the thousands of dollars for municipalities. The township will retain management of the signals.

The installation allows the township — in accordance with PennDOT — to have more control over the signals, according to Hartwig.

One of the things he said he's already looking into as township manager is how the new lights can help traffic flow into the Route 228 corridor in the area of Balls Bend.

“We can get studies done,” Hartwig said. “We can adjust the times.”

Specifically, Hartwig said he's interested in learning more about the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission traffic signal program known as SINC-UP.

SINC-UP helps municipalities cycle traffic signals to coordinate traffic flow. Adams Township participated in the fourth SINC-UP cycle in October in accordance with an agreement between Adams, Marshall and Cranberry townships.

Hartwig said the new signal installation is an example of how townships can benefit from development.

“It's excellent,” Hartwig said. “This is a case of developer-driven improvement to the infrastructure.”