Due to mounting safety concerns, Gettysburg Borough officials have announced an immediate change to traffic patterns along North Washington Street, where a major infrastructure replacement project is underway.
The borough initially planned to keep one lane open during the second phase of the construction to minimize disruption to residents, businesses, and visitors. However, repeated incidents of motorists ignoring traffic signage, acting aggressively toward construction crews, and stealing safety signs have forced officials to reconsider.
“Worker safety must be our top priority,” Borough Manager Charles R. Gable said. “Given the risks we’re seeing, we cannot continue as originally planned.”
The decision follows reports to the Gettysburg Borough Police about ongoing unsafe behavior in the construction zone. Officials also cited a recent work zone fatality involving a Kinsley employee in York County as a reminder of the dangers faced by roadside crews.
After discussions among the Borough Engineer, the Public Works Director, and Gable, the Borough has authorized contractors to close North Washington Street entirely in active work zones during the day. Access to all properties and businesses will remain available. Barricades and signs will be placed each morning and removed at the end of each workday to reopen the street to normal traffic overnight.
The revised traffic control plan mirrors the one used during the project’s first phase and has been approved for immediate use.
For more information, contact Borough Manager Charles R. Gable at (717) 334-1160 ext. 222 or CGable@GettysburgPA.gov.