PennDOT’s I-376 (Parkway East) closure: July 10–Aug. 3 detours + 511PA map

PennDOT is fully closing I-376 (Parkway East) in each direction for bridge work on the I-376 Commercial Street Bridge. The closure window runs July 10–Aug. 3, with the full shutdown operating around the clock from 9:00 p.m. Friday, July 10 through 5:00 a.m. Monday, Aug. 3.

PennDOT also says the dates are tentative and could change.

What’s closing (and what part of I-376)

Crews will close I-376 Parkway East between the Squirrel Hill Tunnel and the Edgewood/Swissvale (Exit 77) interchange while the Commercial Street Bridge is demolished and replaced. PennDOT describes this project as a $95 million effort.

What changes for drivers: “thru traffic” exit points

During the full closure, PennDOT says all I-376 thru traffic must exit at two key interchanges:

• Wilkinsburg (Exit 78B)
• Forbes Ave/Oakland (Exit 72A)

PennDOT also states that single-lane access will be provided to Squirrel Hill/Edgewood for local traffic only.

Plan your bypass route on the official 511PA map

The practical way to match the detour to your commute is PennDOT’s project map interface on 511PA. On the dedicated “Commercial St. Bridge” page, you can select a route to bypass the closure and use the project-specific guidance for the corridor.

511PA also aligns with PennDOT’s guidance that the recommended source for traffic alerts during the closure is the 511PA system (including the app and message boards).

How PennDOT says traffic will be managed

PennDOT expects significant delays on detour routes. The agency says traffic management includes adjusted signal timing, portable message signs for real-time updates, and off-duty police officers stationed at various locations along the detour.

Transit note: expect detours and plan ahead

Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) says it’s encouraging drivers to plan ahead and consider using public transit during the PennDOT closure window. PennDOT’s FAQs also say PRT routes using Commercial Street will be detoured, and that updated schedules will be posted on PRT’s website and shared with municipalities.

What commuters should do now

• Leave extra time and assume detour delays.
• If possible, review your route in 511PA before you go and again if your travel time changes.
• Consider telework/flexible schedules, carpooling, or transit to reduce peak congestion.

Sources

• PennDOT project page: I-376 Parkway East – Commercial Street Bridge Replacement
• 511PA dedicated map page: Commercial St. Bridge
• Pittsburgh Regional Transit news release hub (June 25: PRT encourages drivers to use public transit during upcoming Parkway East closure)