Times Observer file photo Work will resume on the rehabilitation of Longhouse Scenic Drive on Wednesday.

Work is moving forward on Longhouse Scenic Drive as the Allegheny National Forest resumes a multi-year improvement project on Wednesday.

Beginning Wednesday, the road will close to through-traffic between Dewdrop Campground and Elijah Run Boat Launch, through late July.

This stretch of construction is part of a larger effort to modernize and strengthen one of the Allegheny National Forest’s most iconic scenic routes. Funding from the Great American Outdoors Act helped design a project to repair the road and make it more resilient, safe, and better connected to the natural landscape. Recent work on Longhouse Scenic Drive – one of the largest road repair projects funded under the Great American Outdoors Act – has already included repaving miles of scenic road, repairing a landslide area, replacing guide rails, and updating road signs to improve the visitor experience.

The project also includes replacing 156 undersized culverts and installing two aquatic organism passages. The upgrades help protect the road from flood damage and ensure that fish and other aquatic species can move freely through streams. Improved stream connectivity has been shown to strengthen ecosystems, reduce flood risk, and support recreational opportunities tied to vibrant fisheries.

The road connects Route 59 to recreation sites including Jakes Rocks, Dewdrop, Elijah Run and Kiasutha. In total, the work will rehabilitate about 11 miles of paved road, giving visitors a smoother, safer drive along this popular route. A $12.3 million construction contract was awarded to Bob Cummins Construction of Bradford, Pa.

Even during the temporary closure, all recreation sites along Longhouse Scenic Drive are expected to remain open during their normal operating seasons. Visitors can still reach their favorite places with detours. To access Jakes Rocks or Dewdrop Campground, approach from the north via the intersection of State Route 59 and Longhouse Scenic Drive. To reach Kiasutha Recreation Area or Elijah Run Boat Launch, enter from the south via State Route 321.