Project Purpose

The purpose of the project is to create and evaluate various development and transportation options in southern Harrisburg in the vicinity of the Interstate 83 interchange, including the potential extension of South Third Street (which now terminates at a rail crossing south of Chestnut Street). The project includes public involvement and applies engineering, environmental and other expertise to develop a range of alternatives. It also is being coordinated with other ongoing projects, such as the Corridor One light rail study.

The goals of the project are to improve traffic flow, develop land use and economic options, provide a more pedestrian-friendly environment, improve safety, improve access to developed and undeveloped areas, and to create an improved gateway to the city. This project may be a model for the US because of its focus on integrating land use, transportation planning and other issues.

Project Scope

The research area extends from I-83 at the southern end of the city north to Chestnut Street and from the Susquehanna River east to Cameron Street. Feasible engineering and construction options, environmental impacts, impacts on properties, parking and traffic, and constraints—such as topography and historic properties are all components of the ongoing study.

Improvements could involve the interconnection of Front, Second and Third streets and I-83 and open land to economic development. Traffic, land use, economic and environmental studies began in 2000.

Transportation alternatives have not been developed at this time. As options are developed, each will be assessed based on its ability to meet project needs. The project will look at benefits, feasibility, environmental and other impacts, taking in to account public input as well as sound engineering and urban development criteria. Options will be assessed through the eyes of residents, employers, commuters, visitors, business owners, service providers, pedestrians and other key audiences. One alternative will be “no build.”

Public Involvement

There are various public input opportunities, both formal and informal. Those with businesses and property in the area will be part of a special partner group that will meet and be updated on the progress of the study. Also, there will be formal public meetings and hearings at key points during the project. A web site will be created. When design options are developed, there will be sites where they can be reviewed. And the media will be updated on the project.

The Office of the City Engineer is overseeing all consultant work efforts for this project. There is a steering committee composed of representatives of the business and residential community, regional, city and county planners, PENNDOT, Capitol Area Transit and the project team. Since the project is federally funded, the Federal Highway Administration and PENNDOT are also involved.