Board asks manager to convey township input on PennDOT Route 1 RC‑3 plan after residents raise access and safety concerns

MIDDLETOWN, Pa. — The township’s update on PennDOT’s US Route 1 RC‑3 project drew extended public comment on April 6 about access road removal, potential traffic displacement onto local streets and pedestrian safety near schools and the library.

Township staff said the project — in preliminary design with construction anticipated in 2026 — proposes two 12‑foot travel lanes each direction, a 6‑foot shoulder, a center concrete barrier and a 12‑foot shared pedestrian/bicycle path in some areas. PennDOT has proposed converting certain frontage/access roads into pedestrian and bicycle paths in portions of the project, a change that has drawn mixed reaction.

Residents and neighboring borough officials argued elimination of frontage roads could force more traffic onto local streets (Maple Avenue and borough thoroughfares), separate parts of the borough from community destinations and create safety concerns for children crossing to the library and playground. One borough representative asked the board to oppose double cloverleaf ramps where they would increase traffic through the borough.

Board members said they want more public input and recommended that the township manager communicate the board’s views and request enhanced PennDOT outreach to affected municipalities. A motion directing the township manager to communicate with PennDOT on behalf of the township was made and seconded during the meeting.

The meeting record indicates the township will continue soliciting public feedback and will publicize PennDOT’s upcoming plan display sessions; no formal endorsement was recorded on project design elements at this meeting.