This week we are trying something new, so bear with us. In the coming weeks we plan on tailoring some of the emails to constituent needs. 

In our office we work a lot with PennDOT, from roads to the DMV, from speed limit questions, to how we can change the speed limits on this road. So, we decided to tailor this week's email to everything PennDOT. Below are some of the top questions we've received in the office.  

We have broken down the questions by topic, and in some cases made a larger section to expand the information further. 

?? Please call us at 215-572-5210 or email RepNelson@PAHouse.net, if you are still confused or would like help with an issue.

For more information on these FAQs and MORE (than even we knew, click here.) We’re grateful for the chance to support our community during the holiday season.

Traffic:

? Who is responsible for speed limits? 

1. 1. Local municipalities and PennDOT are responsible for setting speed limits. In order to change the speed limit, the municipality must request an engineering and traffic study to be done by PennDOT.

? How do I get the speed limit changed?

1. 1. Since it is the responsibility of your municipality to request a traffic study from PennDOT, if you would like a speed limit changed on a state road, you must FIRST speak with your Township Manager or commissioner. Click here for a list of your municipality's contact information (This link takes you to our self-services page. You will need to click on "Contact Local Government" and then select your municipality).

? How can I request a traffic signal?

1. 1. Municipalities need to request a traffic study. The municipalities purchase, erect, and maintain the signal. If you feel you need a traffic signal, contact your local municipality.

? What are speed bumps/humps and how can I get one? 

1. 1. Speed bumps and speed humps are both traffic calming measures designed to slow down vehicles, but they differ in design, purpose, and application.
   2. A speed hump is an elongated mound in the roadway pavement surface extending across the travel way at a right angle to the traffic flow. A speed hump is typically 3 inches in height (with applications as high as 4 inches) and 12 feet in length along the vehicle travel path and are designed to slow vehicles down to 10-15 mph. 
   3. A speed bump is typically 3 to 6 inches high and 12 to 20 feet long and is designed to force vehicles to slow down to 5-10 mph. 

      They create a more abrupt jolt for vehicles, which can lead to discomfort for passengers and potential vehicle damage if driven over at high speeds. 

   4. Each township/municipality have different regulations regarding these calming measures. 

      For more detailed information or to initiate a request for speed bumps in your area, you can visit the PennDOT website AND contact your local municipality's traffic management office to see IF your municipality would consider installing speed bumps.

Maintenance: 

? How do I get a pothole fixed on a STATE Road? 

1. 1. To report a pothole on any state road in Pennsylvania please click here. This will allow PennDOT to track the concern by location. You may also report by calling 1-800-FIX-ROAD with specific information including: name of county, name of township or borough, name of road, and closest intersection. See below for a more in-depth description. 

      1. If it is a pothole on a municipal/township road, you will need to contact your township public works.

? Why don't I see PennDOT fixing potholes in winter? 

1. 1. PennDOT can temporarily fix potholes in winter with cold patches, but they cannot permanently patch a pothole until temperatures stay consistently above freezing. Please see below for more information on potholes and patching. 

Winter:

? How does PennDOT prepare for a major snowstorm? 

1. 1. The Department of Transportation currently uses many devices to track storms, including weather radar, pavement sensors, and forecasting services. These elements enable PennDOT to quickly mobilize employees and equipment and get a head start on approaching winter storms.
      Please check 511PA.com (or the free 511PA app) for the most up-to-date info on restrictions, road conditions, plow truck locations, and more.

? Why does it take so long for PennDOT to service my road during a winter storm? 

1. 1. PennDOT services roads on a priority basis according to traffic volume. State roads with the highest amount of traffic, such as interstates and four-lanes, receive service first, followed by secondary roads. During a winter storm, PennDOT employees work around-the-clock so that all types of roads receive adequate service in priority order.

Is there a pothole ruining your morning commute on a STATE road? PennDOT wants to know about it!

Visit CustomerCare.PennDOT.gov or call 1-800-FIX-ROAD to alert them of issues on state-maintained roads. Please be as specific as possible (including name of county, township or borough, name of road, and closest intersection). Upon receiving your concern, did you know that work is assigned within 14 days?

* Please keep in mind that most permanent pothole patching is completed in the spring when temperatures stay consistently above freezing. Weather permitting, crews patch potholes during the winter using a cold patch. *

Potholes form in winter when water from rain or snow gets under the road. As temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands, pushing the pavement up. When it warms, the ice melts and leaves gaps under the surface. Traffic then breaks the weakened pavement, causing potholes. Frequent temperature swings and wet weather make them even more common.

During winter, crews use a temporary “cold patch” mix of asphalt, soap, water, and small stones. It stays soft enough to apply in cold weather but doesn’t last long.

In spring, when asphalt plants reopen, crews can use a heated “warm mix” asphalt for stronger, longer-lasting repairs. The warm mix is placed and compacted to create a durable fix. Because asphalt can only be produced in warmer weather, winter repairs are temporary.

For further details, visit PennDOT Maintenance Activities, which includes the above infographic illustrating pothole formation, and access printable PDFs detailing the department's manual and mechanized patching methods.

PennDOT asks drivers to report potholes on state roads by calling 1-800-FIX-ROAD or submitting an online request. Reports should include detailed location information—such as county, municipality, route or street name, and nearby landmarks—so crews can find and fix the problem quickly.

As we head into winter, we've compiled some helpful safety tips and guidelines to keep in mind while driving, walking, or removing snow from your driveway. 

Walk Safe Drive Safe: 

For Pedestrians:

?Wear bright clothing

?Cross at intersections, not from behind snow piles

?Give drivers more time to stop on icy/snowy roads

For Drivers:

?Buckle up

?Give pedestrians more time to cross the street

?Watch for people entering roads behind snow piles

Snow safety during wintry weather, keep pedestrian safety in mind whether you are walking or driving with these tips. And drivers always remember to buckle up!

Snow Removal on Property:

? Is your property adjacent to a state-owned roadway?

1. 1. Shovel or plow snow to the right side of the driveway (as you face the intersecting roadway).
   2. Eliminate snow piles at the property entrance whenever possible.
   3. Do not push snow onto roadways at any time. 

Get more snow removal tips here: www.penndot.pa.gov/winter.

Pothole and road repairs depend on weather and available staff. The same crews who fix potholes also operate snowplows in winter, working from about 7 AM to 6 PM. Drivers should expect temporary lane restrictions and are urged to slow down and stay alert in work zones. Crews will continue patching as conditions allow.

PennDOT is always looking for new crew, especially in our district!

Visit www.employment.pa.gov/penndot to view their available operator and non-operator positions across Pennsylvania and learn more about the competitive wages and endless opportunities waiting for you!

Harrisburg Office

325 Irvis Office Building

PO Box 202154

Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-1079

Glenside Office

115 East Glenside Avenue

Suite 8
Glenside, PA 19038
(215) 572-5210