Route 222/ Route 863/Schantz Road roundabout

This project stands out as the first major roundabout in the Lehigh Valley.

Yes, I’ve heard your voicemails and read the emails. Plenty of you don’t like roundabouts. I hear you.

Frankly, I think it’s just a matter of adjusting to something new. I’ve driven through roundabouts all over in my travels without problems.

In an intersection I’ve driven through before and after it was converted into a roundabout, I’ve noticed a significant improvement.

The traffic flow at the Route 222 and Route 662 interchange in Berks County leaps to mind.

The Route 222/Route 863/ Schantz Road roundabout will be the latest the state is adding to the Route 222 corridor.

According to PennDOT spokesman Ron Young, the project is finishing up its final design now.

The department will seek construction bids this summer. I’d expect to see construction begin by the end of the year.

The final project is due for completion in December 2020.

Anticipated cost: $11.5 million