I-279 and SR 28 are the two most congested roadways on Pittsburgh’s North Side.  These roadways are vital links for access to downtown and the airport from the Allegheny Valley along with the businesses on the North Side.  This is also an access route to Heinz Field and PNC Park, homes of the Steelers and Pirates.  The current movement from SR 28 South to I-279 South requires motorists to exit SR 28 onto East Ohio Street, travel through three traffic signals, and then take a ramp onto I-279 Southbound.  Elements of interest and tasks that JMT performed on this project were:

• Existing movements were heavily congested well beyond the morning and afternoon peak commuter hours causing motorists to wait through 2-3 cycles at each signal.
• There is also heavy truck traffic in this area, which contributes to the congestion.
• PENNDOT selected JMT to provide the engineering services for a new direct connection between SR 28 South and I-279 South.
• JMT investigated three alternative alignments to provide the direct connection, developed a feasibility matrix considering factors such as design criteria, constructability, traffic control and cost, and aided the client in the selection of the preferred alternate.  
• The highlight of the design will be the 2-span, curved girder bridge meshed over and under the existing roadway network.  The spans will each be 160 feet long and will blend into the existing “concrete jungle”.
• JMT has drawn rave reviews from PENNDOT, FHWA, the City of Pittsburgh, public officials, and the general public for this design.  A more efficient route to the downtown area, the Airport and to the stadiums was realized.