JMT was responsible for completing contract documents for the reconstruction of approximately nine miles of Interstate 81, from its split with Interstate 78 north to the Schuylkill County line.  At first glance, this project appeared to be straightforward, with the major issue being maintenance of traffic during construction.  But significant environmental issues, coupled with extensive bridge rehabilitation issues, required JMT to implement innovative coordination and design techniques.  We not only met the project schedule, but provided a design that was completed at 15% below the budgeted cost. 

Project challenges included:

• Avoiding environmental impacts to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the historic Union Canal, the Swatara Multi-Use Trail, the Swatara Creek and a unique geological resource called the Swatara Slide, a slope directly adjacent to I-81 that contained fossils and artifacts. 
• Coordinating with three federal, eight state and four local agencies regarding natural, cultural, and socioeconomic resources.
• Designing a long-lasting, solid base for the roadway and a smooth driving surface that resisted cracking.