Over the past several months, Skippack Township has been keeping residents informed about the conditions at the intersection of Church Road and Skippack Pike. We are providing this update to explain what we have discovered, how the project has evolved, and what residents can expect moving forward.
What We Found
Our Public Works crew originally identified a serious concern with the storm sewer inlet on the northeast corner of the intersection. The old brick inlet box was showing signs of collapse. The Township initially explored whether a relatively quick repair could address the problem and met with a local contractor to evaluate possible solutions.
During that evaluation, however, it became clear that the issue extended well beyond the inlet box itself. Inspection revealed significant deterioration of the storm sewer pipes entering the structure. Given the condition of the surrounding infrastructure, simply repairing the inlet would not have been a responsible or long-term solution.
The Township subsequently arranged for a video inspection of the storm sewer system. The inspection provided clear evidence that portions of the existing pipe network are failing and require more extensive attention.
Expanding the Project
As the Township evaluated the storm sewer system, additional concerns became apparent. The ADA pedestrian ramps surrounding the intersection are also in disrepair and should be upgraded to meet current accessibility and construction standards.
The Township also met with PennDOT's maintenance representatives because the local storm sewer system connects to PennDOT's drainage network within the state highway. PennDOT has indicated that its maintenance team is willing to cooperate with the Township. However, PennDOT does not have the budget or manpower to undertake the larger improvements needed within the Township's roadways.
This presented an opportunity to address more than just the failing pipe. The intersection has experienced drainage challenges and a low point that have created difficult conditions for many years. With the storm sewer work now necessary, the Township believes it is prudent to address these longstanding drainage issues as part of the overall project.
Moving Toward Design and Bidding
Because the scope of the work has expanded significantly, the project is now expected to exceed the threshold requiring a formal public bidding process.
The drainage improvements and ADA ramp upgrades have received an exemption from PennDOT's permit processing requirements, helping to streamline the process.
Township staff have completed a field survey to gather the information necessary to design the improvements, including detailed information about the pedestrian ramps and existing storm sewer network. Traffic Planning & Design (TPD) are currently working on the highway design.
Once the design plans are completed, the Township will move forward with the public bidding process. We will continue to keep residents informed as the project progresses and additional information becomes available.
Current Roadway Conditions
At this time, the metal plate installed at the location has stabilized the roadway and appears to have avoided the need for an emergency repair. Our Public Works crew continues to closely monitor the area.
If conditions deteriorate or more aggressive remediation becomes necessary before the bidding process is completed and a construction contract is awarded, the Township will take the appropriate action to protect the safety of motorists and pedestrians.
While the original concern began with a failing storm sewer inlet, the investigation has allowed the Township to identify a much larger infrastructure issue. By addressing the storm sewer system, drainage conditions, and ADA ramps together, we can work toward a more comprehensive and lasting improvement to this important intersection.
The Township appreciates residents' patience as we work through the necessary design, bidding, and construction processes. We will provide additional updates as this project moves forward.
