A major detour is set to disrupt travel in Centre County, Pennsylvania, as construction crews embark on a significant project. Starting January 12th, drivers will need to navigate an alternative route on Route 26 southbound, impacting traffic between I-80 and I-99. This high-speed interchange project, led by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), aims to enhance safety and efficiency by providing a direct connection between the two interstates. However, the detour will cause a temporary inconvenience for commuters, especially those traveling from Howard to State College. The project, estimated at $259 million, includes the construction of a new interchange, 10 bridges, retaining walls, and various upgrades to the existing infrastructure. PennDOT expects the detour to last until March, and construction schedules may change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances. This multi-phase project, which began in 2020, is part of a larger initiative to improve the regional freight economy and road reliability, with an anticipated completion date of 2030.
