The long-awaited reopening of Route 611 through the Delaware Water Gap is scheduled to happen at 8 a.m. Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright’s office said.
A temporary, free-standing rockfall barrier has been installed along the highway through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area along with new pavement, new signage and a temporary traffic signal. These updates will allow two-way traffic to flow from Cherry Valley Road/Oak Street in Delaware Water Gap Borough in Monroe County south to Slateford Road in Upper Mount Bethel Township. while officials continue working behind-the-scenes on a more permanent solution.
The section of Route 611 was closed after heavy rains led to a rockslide along Mount Minsi in December 2022. After months of talks between PennDOT and the National Park Service, the two agencies reached an agreement in July to begin repairs.
“Completing this road construction project was not just a matter of convenience; it was about ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents and the prosperity of our local businesses,” said Cartwright, D-8th District. “The long-awaited reopening of Route 611 demonstrates that local, state and federal agencies and elected officials can all work together for the good of our community.”