CRANBERRY TWP — A major road construction project in the township received another financial boost last week.

A total of $400,000 will go toward the MSA Thruway roundabout and multimodal connectivity project near Interstate 79 and Route 228. It was one of 106 projects across the state to receive funding via the Multimodal Transportation Fund announced last week by Gov. Tom Wolf. It was the only Butler County project to receive money in this round of announcements.

“Infrastructure is one of the most crucial components of Pennsylvania's economic well-being,” Wolf said. “We can't have a robust economy without modern-day infrastructure. These projects will improve residents' quality of life and boost Pennsylvania businesses and communities.”

Currently under construction, the MSA Thruway intends to do just that.

The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion by building beneath Route 228 and corresponding ramps from I-79. The throughway also will connect the Cranberry Springs development and Cranberry Woods Business Park.

To construct the 150-foot underpass, crews are expected to dig about 25 feet down. The road will have two northbound lanes, one southbound lane, a bike trail and a sidewalk. The opening at each end will be large enough to let in natural light, but the design calls for lighting to ensure it is safe for pedestrians.

The project, estimated to cost about $16 million, could support the creation of 2,300 permanent, full-time jobs and more than 4,000 temporary construction jobs as well as open the area for future development, according to officials.

Last fall, the state's Department of Community and Economic Development approved a $2.87 million grant to help with the project.

In December, Cranberry Township supervisors voted to participate in the Butler County Infrastructure Bank program, giving the township the ability to borrow up to $7.6 million for the project.