The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission faced a critical challenge as it advanced the Northeast Extension A38 to A44 widening project. The work required a significant amount of compensatory mitigation, and the original plan relied on credits from the Quaker Mitigation Bank. As the project schedule became more defined, uncertainty around credit release timing created risk for the client’s ability to stay compliant with permit requirements.

RES shifted strategy and advanced a permittee responsible mitigation (PRM) approach. This change ensured that mitigation would be delivered in alignment with the client’s schedule. The team identified suitable private property and secured the rights needed to move forward. From there, RES initiated baseline data collection and developed a design that would support both ecological function and regulatory compliance.

The Yellow Barn Farm PRM now provides a sizable portion of the required mitigation credits for the A38 to A44 widening project. The project delivers 2,375.45 stream credits and 3.21 wetland credits. The remaining mitigation needs are fulfilled through Quaker Mitigation Bank credits, creating a balanced and reliable solution for the client.

RES worked closely with Appalachian Stream Restoration, who led construction while RES provided oversight to ensure the project was built according to design and permit requirements. This collaboration helped deliver a high-quality restoration that supports both stream and wetland functions.

Today, the site is in the maintenance and monitoring phase and is progressing toward meeting all performance standards. RES continues to provide long-term stewardship, including required monitoring and maintenance through permit closeout.