The newly reduced speed limit on Willowbrook Road - from 35 mph to 25 mph - is not making many motorists happy, as can be observed by a stream of brake lights and frustration on drivers’ faces.

The lowering of the speed limit results from an Allen Township request to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to place 25 mph signs along Willowbrook Road until approximately May 2017, so road widening can continue and be completed in a timely manner, while keeping the safety of workers and drivers as a priority.

Allen Township Board of Supervisors addressed this speed limit change at its Nov. 10 meeting.

At the Oct. 13 supervisors’ meeting, a contractor asked that Willowbrook Road be closed for two months during roadwork associated with the massive FedEx Ground project.

Closing the roadway will not happen, supervisors agreed, saying that measure would divert traffic to Weaversville Road, Howertown Road and other secondary roads, causing gridlocks in the area.

Supervisors were told work by Alston Construction is being delayed by Verizon, which is expected to soon begin replacing fiber-optic cables along Willowbrook Road.

Chairman Bruce Frack said he has experienced the frustration some drivers have with the newly reduced speed limit. He said a driver behind him on the road gave him a “one-finger salute” and then a “two-finger salute” for complying with the reduced speed limit.

Township officials said they are utilizing Facebook and other means to keep the public briefed on the huge Fed- Ex distribution plant project.

State police have vehicles parked in the area. The township has no full- or part-time police force. Speed-monitoring devices also are at the site.

It is possible there could be only one lane of traffic open to vehicles on Willowbrook Road for specific roadwork, but such a condition would not be permitted by the township for extended periods. Vice Chairman Dale Hassler said the contractor would have to come to the township for such approval.