What to know about roadwork season in Western Pa.
While spring marks the return of warmer weather in Western Pennsylvania, it also brings back the unmistakable sights and sounds of roadwork — including fresh surface treatments, pothole repairs and active construction zones.
For drivers, it’s a time of year that demands increased levels of patience and focus behind the wheel. Knowing what’s happening under your car can make a difference while navigating roads on the mend.
One of the most common sights this time of year is surface treatment, often referred to as “oil and chip” or seal coating. The process is designed to preserve roads for five to seven years, particularly on lower-traffic routes, while also extending the life of busier roads between resurfacings.
While relatively cost-effective, the treatment comes with a temporary trade-off for motorists. It can take up to two days for the stone to fully bond with the asphalt, leaving loose gravel on the road. During that time, drivers should reduce their speed to maintain traction and avoid damage from flying debris.
Potholes, however, remain one of the most immediate concerns following a season of at-times debilitating weather.
“With a rough winter behind us, we’re now out working to repair potholes across our 7,110 lane miles in District 10,” said Tina Gibbs, community relations coordinator for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
Unpredictable and sometimes hard to spot, potholes require drivers to stay vigilant at all times. This becomes even more critical when severe weather like thunderstorms and high winds comes into play.
“We encourage drivers to stay alert and scan the road ahead for any hazards,” Gibbs said. “Potholes can look like a puddle or appear unexpectedly but keeping your eyes on the road and avoiding distractions will help to avoid them.”
Maintaining a safe following distance can improve visibility and give drivers more time to react, while proper tire inflation and adjusted speeds can lessen the impact if a pothole can’t be avoided.
Drivers are encouraged to report potholes to PennDOT’s online customer care center. Gibbs said those requests should try to be as specific as possible about locations.
Beyond road conditions themselves, construction zones introduce another layer of risk.
In all posted work zones, drivers must turn on their headlights — and not just when crews are visible. It's especially important for vehicles with daytime running lights, which do not activate taillights, Gibbs said.
Motorists should follow posted speed limits, pay close attention to signs and flaggers and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Gibbs recommended using four-way flashers when stopped or traveling slowly to improve visibility, while avoiding distractions.
Drivers are also urged to expect sudden changes that include shifting lanes, stopped traffic or workers entering the road; and to always approach each zone with patience.
Roadwork revolves around maintaining and improving the infrastructure that keeps communities together. With a combination of awareness, caution and respect for others, drivers should always be aware of the role they play in ensuring that everyone makes it to their destinations.
