DELAWARE WATER GAP — Route 611 in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area will reopen temporarily, in the wake of a compromise between the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the National Park Service (NPS).

The agreement, which was announced by U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright (D, PA-8), PA Sen. Rosemary Brown (R, 40), and PA Rep. Tarah Probst (D, 189), provides for the installation of a temporary rockfall barrier to allow two-way traffic while a more permanent solution is in the works.

A rockslide in December 2022 closed the road, and its reopening plans faced challenges because of statutory limitations. 

The officials say the collaborative effort aims to alleviate the hardships faced by local residents, businesses, and communities while also protecting the natural environment.

The project is expected to take approximately eight to ten weeks to complete once permits are finalized.