The new Fort Washington Zip Ramp opened to traffic on Tuesday, July 14, giving drivers a direct route from the Pennsylvania Turnpike to Commerce Drive and the Greater Fort Washington District.
The project is expected to improve connectivity, reduce congestion, and support continued growth in the Fort Washington area. Montgomery County provided $550,000 in grant funding, according to county commissioner Jamila Winder.
Upper Dublin Township’s municipal authority invested about $45 million in infrastructure. According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, 70% came from state and county transportation and development grants. The 2,100-foot ramp was designed and built for about $3 million.
The ramp “creates a direct connection between the Pennsylvania Turnpike and Commerce Drive, improving access to the Greater Fort Washington District and supporting one of the county’s major employment centers,” the Montgomery County Planning Commission said in a post. “MCPC was proud to have members from our Transportation section on hand to celebrate the new ramp opening! Here at MCPC, we know that thoughtful transportation planning and infrastructure investments help strengthen local economies, improve mobility, and create a more connected county for residents, workers, and visitors alike.”
The redevelopment of a 536-acre office park, which includes a Lifetime Fitness complex, new retail outlets, and TruMark Credit Union’s headquarters, is ongoing. Three former office properties have been converted to apartment buildings, with a fourth turned into a storage facility, The Inquirer said.
“Infrastructure projects like this one are investments in the future of our community,” Senator Maria Collett said in a post. “Every minute saved on a commute, every truck that reaches its destination more efficiently, and every neighbor who can more easily access our local businesses strengthens our regional economy.”
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Photos: MCPC, Senator Collett