Congestion at Marhsalls Creek

HARRISBURG – St. Sen. Lisa Baker and St. Rep. John Siptroth both support the latest discussions aimed at addressing the long-standing congestion at one of the Pocono’s busiest intersections.  Baker and Siptroth are part of an advisory group meeting to discuss the status of the project.

Baker says the Marshall’s Creek Traffic Relief Project remains vital to the region’s quality of life and economic vitality. 

“The decision to advance a portion of the work on the Marshall’s Creek Bypass next year is welcome and shows positive progress by the department [PennDOT] in consultation with our community”, Baker said, noting, however that “this is only a first step”.

The senator says the plan outlined at last week’s meeting does not fully alleviate concerns about traffic safety and congestion.  Questions about funding also remain. 

“PennDOT must demonstrate its continued commitment to addressing these issues by making this project a high priority and by honoring its promise to move forward once the special design team completes revisions to the project scope”, Baker said.

St. Rep. John Siptroth endorses plans to develop a park-and-ride at the flea market a mile north of the bypass.

"I have repeatedly stressed to PennDOT the urgent need to construct this Park & Ride to assist commuters in Lehman and Middle Smithfield townships and reduce traffic through Shawnee-on-Delaware and Smithfield Township," Siptroth said. "I am pleased that this part of the project will now proceed and I remain determined to keep the entire redesign of the Marshalls Creek Bypass project moving forward."

The Park & Ride, planned as part of Phase 2 of the Marshalls Creek Bypass project, will be located at the site of the Poconos Bazaar on state Route 209 and will have space for 418 cars.