The Central Susquehanna Valley Transportation (CSVT) project is a long‑anticipated 13‑mile, four‑lane highway that provides a safer, faster connection through the heart of central Pennsylvania. First proposed more than 50 years ago, the project links Route 147 south of Montandon to US 15, alleviating traffic congestion and improving mobility across the region. STV supported the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation through both early planning and final design for the 5.3‑mile Northern Section, which opened in 2022 and has since delivered significant traffic relief for surrounding communities.
What challenges did STV address?
The project’s most defining feature – the CSVT River Bridge – crosses the West Branch Susquehanna River in a corridor constrained by steep valley walls, sensitive environmental areas and the presence of a nearby small airport. STV needed to advance alternatives analysis, environmental documentation and preliminary engineering while addressing complex structural, geotechnical and airspace considerations. Supporting PennDOT’s long‑term vision required decades of coordination across local municipalities, resource agencies and the public.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV began as a subconsultant performing engineering studies, planning, preliminary design and a full environmental impact statement. PennDOT later selected the firm to lead final design for the Northern Section, developing roadway geometrics, structures, utility coordination and pedestrian and traffic elements. STV’s design facilitated the construction of the landmark river bridge and verified that the new limited‑access highway was integrated safely within the surrounding communities.
How does this project benefit the community?
Since opening, the Northern Section has offloaded an estimated 12,000 vehicles per day from local roads and reduced traffic volumes on US 15 by roughly 30 percent. The new highway improves regional safety, supports economic development and enhances travel reliability between communities in Winfield, Montandon and Northumberland.
Key stats and accolades
- 5.3 miles of new limited‑access highway
- 12,000 vehicles offloaded daily from local routes
- 30 percent reduction in traffic on US 15
- Landmark CSVT River Bridge over the West Branch Susquehanna River
