The vital infrastructure project, I-78/SR 61 Bridge Replacement and Interchange Reconstruction Project in Berks County, PA, has been recognized by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Mid-Atlantic Chapter with the 2026 Project of the Year Award in the Mega Project over $100 million category, as well as the Overall Project of the Year Award. The awards were presented at the CMAA Mid-Atlantic Chapter’s Annual Awards Gala, where Urban Engineers (Urban) and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), District 5-0, were recognized.

The $134.5 million construction project improved a critical corridor where I-78 crosses SR 61 and the Schuylkill River. Work included replacing and widening multiple bridges, rehabilitating the seven-span open-spandrel arch bridge, roadway reconstruction, drainage, sound barriers, and ITS improvements. Major work was completed in seven traffic phases while maintaining two lanes on I-78. Highlights include 80 drilled caissons, CSL/TIP testing, and coordination with railroad and utility stakeholders.

On behalf of PennDOT, District 5-0, Urban served as the Construction Management Consultant on the project, with Aaron Barnes, PE, CCM, leading the effort as Urban’s Construction Manager. The team's contributions helped advance completion to May 30, 2025, more than six months ahead of schedule, with SR 61 reopened to unrestricted traffic one month early.

“We’re incredibly honored to be recognized by CMAA Mid-Atlantic,” said Barnes, who has been with Urban for almost 30 years. “This project was a true team effort by PennDOT and many other partners. Urban is proud to be recognized for our quality services as we continue to create safer communities for all." 

Continued Barnes, “The entire team helped achieve early completion through phased construction and staged traffic control, allowing simultaneous work in multiple areas. Regular coordination meetings facilitated rapid issue resolution and decision-making. In addition, the team prioritized critical work areas, monitored progress, and collaborated with the contractor to set internal milestones that minimized delays.”

The I-78/SR 61 Bridge Replacement and Interchange Reconstruction Project provides long-term benefits by improving reliability, enhancing safety, and supporting continued regional mobility. It reflects a well-coordinated effort to deliver meaningful infrastructure improvements in a challenging setting.