The 5-point intersection of the Pennsylvania Turnpike interchange in Somerset has been the scene of a handful of crashes and plenty of close calls.

In 2003, Somerset County officials started meeting with the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission to determine how to improve the intersection. With the launch of EZ Pass since then, and cars and trucks moving faster through toll booths, the plans gained momentum.

Though plans were announced in 2005, turnpike officials have now finally been able to get everyone on board. The first phase of the project will be put out for bid by this winter and includes moving a traffic light closer to the toll booths and putting up jersey barriers along the access road, eliminating left turns.

By Spring 2010, crews will start the second phase, which consists of building a bridge over the turnpike access road to Waterworks Road to keep traffic flowing.

"It's not only a question a danger, but it's so unusual that drivers coming from any direction have to look 360 degrees to try to see the best way to avoid any oncoming traffic," said Jim Marker, Somerset County commissioner.

Turnpike officials said there has been some concern from businesses about access and maintenance, but county officials said those shouldn’t be a problem.

Crews said they hope to complete the project in one year.