BEAR CREEK TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A traffic alert for drivers in Luzerne County, the bridge on Laurel Run Road that crosses the Turnpike in Bear Creek is closed for renovations.
Making a U-turn on Laurel Run Road was a common sight Monday morning as crews brought out road-closed signs to renovate the bridge over the turnpike.
While some drivers knew about it ahead of time, others like motorist Brianna Salas were surprised when getting turned around.
“I had no idea about it and like I usually take here to get through to Philly and that’s where I’m actually headed now so I don’t know what I’m going to do now so!”
The nine-month closure is part of a bridge replacement project on the PA Turnpike’s Northeast Extension.
Talks of plans to repair the bridge go back to September of 2022, revealing the roughly 14 miles of detour routes that add an estimated 20 minutes of travel for drivers.
First responders will still have access to use the bridge through an emergency access point, but all others will have to take a detour.
Drivers on the west side of the bridge who are looking to get to 115 will have to take Laurel Run Road to Northampton Street, to 309 Business, to Highland Park Boulevard, to 81 North, and then finally to 115 South.
The Laurel Run Bridge closure in Bear Creek will be in place until November of 2024.
