The long-awaited reopening of Route 611 through Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has been scheduled for Nov. 4, U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright’s office announced Wednesday.
The section of highway was closed between Upper Mount Bethel Township north of Portland and Delaware Water Gap Borough 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.
“The long-awaited reopening of Route 611 is a perfect example of local, state and federal agencies and elected officials working together for the good of the community,” said Cartwright, D-8th District. “This was a group effort, and I want to thank Senator Rosemary Brown and Representative Tarah Probst along with officials from PennDOT, the National Park Service, the Federal Highway Administration, and the many elected and community officials who showed up for every meeting to advocate on behalf of their constituents.”
PennDOT updated officials Wednesday, giving the following construction updates:
- Concrete moment slab is complete.
- Electrical trenching is complete.
- The barrier is installed and anchored.
- Traffic signal foundations are complete.
- Electrical work is being finalized, with transformer and power supply being hooked up this week.
PennDOT said its contractor will attach a rock fence to the barrier on Monday with a final repaving from Waring Drive to Arrow Island Overlook scheduled for Oct. 28.
This compromise will allow traffic to flow while PennDOT and NPS continue working behind the scenes on a more permanent solution.