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Construction Highlights in 2024

In 2024, significant work was carried out. 27 bridges were replaced or repaired, and 171 roadway miles were paved. This extensive work showcases the dedication of the engineering district. For example, in Lebanon County alone, projects like the resurfacing of Route 2012/Route 2003 in Richland Borough and South Lebanon Township, and the intersection realignment project on Route 2001 in North Cornwall Township, demonstrate the ongoing efforts to improve the local infrastructure. A notable ongoing project is the installation of a cable median barrier and guide rails along major routes in multiple counties, which ensures enhanced safety.

Projects Completed in Lebanon County

This year, several projects in Lebanon County were completed. The Route 2012/Route 2003 resurfacing project cost $4 million, while the Route 2001 intersection realignment project was $1.8 million, and the Route 72 and Isabel Drive intersection improvement project was $1.2 million. These projects have a direct impact on the local community, making the roads and intersections safer and more efficient.

Projects in Progress and Bidding

Notable projects that are continuing this year include the installation of a cable median barrier and guide rails along Route 30, I-81, and Route 222 in Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, and York counties, which costs $5.2 million. Additionally, projects like the Route 72 Ebenezer Road bridge replacement project in Swatara and Union townships ($5 million), the Route 4020 Fisher Avenue and I-81 ramps resurfacing project in Union Township ($2.3 million), and the Route 22 Allentown Blvd. structure rehabilitation project ($500,000) are making significant progress. The installation of CCTV and DMS devices along interstates in Cumberland, Dauphin, and Lebanon counties ($3.4 million) and the restriping of white and yellow edge lines along various state highways within District 8 ($1.5 million) are also important aspects of the ongoing construction work.Supporting LebTown means supporting local journalism. You can help make it sustainable by becoming a champion of local news. Whether through a one-time contribution or becoming a monthly or annual member, your support is crucial. If you have any questions or suggestions for future LebTown articles, reach out using our contact form.

During a construction project in central England, an extraordinary hoard of Roman coins was unearthed. These gold and silver coins, dating back to the reign of Rome's Emperor Nero, hold immense historical significance. Museums Worcestershire is now raising funds to acquire and preserve these coins within the county where they were found.

Uncover the Treasures of Roman Worcestershire

The Significance of the Worcestershire Conquest Hoard

The Worcestershire Conquest Hoard, consisting of 1,368 coins, is one of the most important archaeological discoveries in the county in the last 100 years. Most of the coins are silver denarii, with a single gold coin minted for a local British tribe at the time. The pot in which the coins were buried was likely made at a nearby pottery kiln. It is believed that the coins were brought to the area by Roman soldiers, and one theory suggests they may have belonged to a wealthy local farmer who supplied the army with grain and livestock.This hoard was assembled and buried during a crucial period when Worcestershire lay at the edge of an expanding Empire. It provides valuable insights into the history and culture of the region 2000 years ago.

The Discovery Process and Its Impact

In late 2023, members of the public discovered the stash of coins. Dr. Murray Andrews, a lecturer in British archaeology at University College London, described the discovery as "remarkable" and "the most miraculous thing I've seen over the last 100 years." It is an important piece of archaeology that helps us understand the past and the boundaries of the Roman Empire.This is not the first time such a hoard has been found in the area. In 2011, two metal detectorists discovered a clay pot filled with 3,784 coins, and in 1999, 434 silver coins and 38 pottery fragments were also found. Each discovery adds to our knowledge of the region's history.If Museums Worcestershire fails to raise the necessary funds, the latest hoard may be returned to the finders or the landowner, and it may never be displayed publicly. This emphasizes the importance of preserving these treasures for future generations.Karen May, Chair of the Joint Museums Committee, stated, "What a fantastic find and so important for anyone wishing to understand more about the county's heritage. This is real Worcestershire treasure, and it needs to be seen and enjoyed by Worcestershire residents for generations to come."