Diverging diamond proposed for I-70 in Rostraver Interchange would be similar to diamond at I-70 and Murtland Avenue
The state is considering a diverging diamond interchange similar to one under construction in South Strabane Township for the intersection of Interstate 70 and Route 51 in Rostraver Township.
The design that forces motorists to switch lanes for better access to I-70 is among a number of proposals that are under review for Rostraver to create a safer interchange as the highway is being reconstructed from the West Virginia line to New Stanton in Westmoreland County.
“It’s the most likely alternative at this point,” said Bill Beaumariage, a senior civil engineer with the state Department of Transportation, referring to the diverging diamond design.
The Murtland interchange at Route 19 and I-70 is the first diverging diamond to be constructed in Pennsylvania. The $51.2 million project, which includes new traffic signals, is expected to open to traffic in November 2017.
The Rostraver project isn’t expected to begin until 2022, and the contract may be folded into the construction of a new interchange in Rostraver at the Arnold City interchange, Beaumariage said.
“The diverging diamond is typically needed where you need to keep a small footprint,” he said.
The crossover traffic proposed for Route 51 at I-70 is in an area where a golf course, hotels and other businesses are situated close to both highways.
Nearly 30,000 vehicles travel each day along Route 51 at its interchange with I-70.