Add a third lane on I-81 between Scranton and Wilkes-Barre for safety
Add a third lane on I-81 between Scranton and Wilkes-Barre for safety
The Issue
Traffic sucks. Driving between Scranton and Wilkes-Barre on I-81 is stressful and time-consuming, affecting countless individuals who depend on this route daily for work, school, and leisure activities. Every rush hour becomes a nightmare, with miles of bumper-to-bumper traffic hindering our ability to get where we need to go safely and on time.
The current two-lane configuration simply cannot accommodate the high volume of vehicles that travel this stretch of road. This congestion leads to increased accidents, road rage incidents, and wasted time and resources. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), traffic on I-81 between these two major cities is growing steadily, exacerbating safety concerns and increasing travel times for commuters and other travelers.
Adding a third lane to this crucial segment of I-81 would alleviate these issues and significantly improve safety. A wider roadway would reduce traffic congestion, lower the risk of accidents, and enhance the quality of life for residents and commuters in the area. It would also boost local economies by improving accessibility and reducing transportation costs.
Moreover, a third lane would provide a much-needed relief during peak hours, allowing emergency vehicles to respond more swiftly to incidents and improving overall traffic flow. It is a practical solution that reflects the growing demands of our region and aligns with other infrastructure improvements across Pennsylvania.
PennDOT, we urge you to take this vital step towards safety and efficiency. By expanding I-81 to include a third lane, you will not only address current traffic issues but also prepare the region for future growth. Show your commitment to the safety and well-being of Pennsylvanians by investing in this necessary infrastructure improvement.
Sign this petition to demand action from PennDOT to expand I-81 between Scranton and Wilkes-Barre. Together, we can drive change and make our roads safer and more efficient for everyone who travels this essential route every day.

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The Issue
Traffic sucks. Driving between Scranton and Wilkes-Barre on I-81 is stressful and time-consuming, affecting countless individuals who depend on this route daily for work, school, and leisure activities. Every rush hour becomes a nightmare, with miles of bumper-to-bumper traffic hindering our ability to get where we need to go safely and on time.
The current two-lane configuration simply cannot accommodate the high volume of vehicles that travel this stretch of road. This congestion leads to increased accidents, road rage incidents, and wasted time and resources. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), traffic on I-81 between these two major cities is growing steadily, exacerbating safety concerns and increasing travel times for commuters and other travelers.
Adding a third lane to this crucial segment of I-81 would alleviate these issues and significantly improve safety. A wider roadway would reduce traffic congestion, lower the risk of accidents, and enhance the quality of life for residents and commuters in the area. It would also boost local economies by improving accessibility and reducing transportation costs.
Moreover, a third lane would provide a much-needed relief during peak hours, allowing emergency vehicles to respond more swiftly to incidents and improving overall traffic flow. It is a practical solution that reflects the growing demands of our region and aligns with other infrastructure improvements across Pennsylvania.
PennDOT, we urge you to take this vital step towards safety and efficiency. By expanding I-81 to include a third lane, you will not only address current traffic issues but also prepare the region for future growth. Show your commitment to the safety and well-being of Pennsylvanians by investing in this necessary infrastructure improvement.
Sign this petition to demand action from PennDOT to expand I-81 between Scranton and Wilkes-Barre. Together, we can drive change and make our roads safer and more efficient for everyone who travels this essential route every day.

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Petition created on March 19, 2026