Charleroi Roads Crumble Amidst Construction Fears

Residents and leaders in Charleroi are voicing significant concerns regarding the stability of borough roads. These worries intensified after a trench collapse five months ago on McKean Avenue, which trapped a worker nearly 15 feet underground. Near the collapse site, new cracks have begun to appear on the road surface.

Following the collapse, KDKA Investigates reported on potential pre-existing road conditions, likely stemming from aging infrastructure, which had small subsurface voids. Concurrently, Columbia Gas undertook a pipeline replacement project throughout the borough, beginning in early 2025 and concluding at the end of December. Fire Chief Robert Whiten Jr. noted that significant road deterioration, including ruts and cracks, began after this project commenced.

These road conditions are reportedly creating issues for emergency vehicles, potentially delaying responses. One particularly problematic area is near McKean Avenue and Eighth Street, where a lane remains closed due to construction, with visible cracks. PennDOT has been notified and is evaluating the damage. While the borough manager stated there is no imminent danger of a sinkhole, one lane was blocked off as a precaution until repairs can be made.

Columbia Gas stated that minor voids encountered during their project were from pre-existing conditions and did not significantly impact their work, asserting the cracks are unrelated to their project. They indicated final paving is scheduled for spring 2026. PennDOT is coordinating with the borough and utility companies to determine the cause and solution for the road cracking. The Department of Environmental Protection may investigate if mine subsidence is a potential cause for non-state roads.