If you live in Center Valley, your day often starts with a simple question: how fast can you get to the highway or the airport. Whether you commute, travel for business, or host out-of-town guests, easy access matters. In this guide, you’ll get a clear picture of your main routes, how to reach Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), and smart tips to save time. Let’s dive in.
Center Valley’s key highways
Center Valley sits along two important routes that shape almost every trip. PA‑309 is the primary north–south road through the village and connects quickly to Interstate 78. Just northwest of Center Valley, PA‑309 transitions to a limited-access freeway and links to I‑78 near Lanark and Coopersburg (PA‑309 overview).
PA‑309 at a glance
- Primary connector to I‑78 and the US‑22 corridor.
- Limited-access section begins just northwest of Center Valley.
- Common starting point for drives to ABE, Allentown, and points east or west.
PA‑378 into Bethlehem
- Begins at PA‑309 in Center Valley.
- Runs north into Bethlehem and crosses under I‑78.
- Useful for reaching Bethlehem and connecting to US‑22.
Fastest routes to ABE
ABE sits between Allentown and Bethlehem and is described as easily accessible from I‑78 and Route 22. The airport’s official directions page offers the most direct routes and current ground transportation details (ABE directions and parking).
Typical drive time and distance
- Center Valley to ABE is about 12 to 15 miles. In normal traffic, expect 20 to 30 minutes door to door (Center Valley–ABE distance).
Common driving route
- Take PA‑309 north toward the I‑78 and US‑22 area.
- Follow signs for US‑22 and exit to PA‑987 (Airport Road) to the terminal.
- Verify directions on the airport’s page before you go, especially during construction or peak hours (ABE directions and parking).
Public transit and ride options
LANTA provides bus service that reaches Center Valley and connects to airport-serving routes through nearby hubs. Service in Center Valley expanded with Route 323 and, with transfers, can connect you to ABE (LANTA service expansion). For planning, review real‑time route information and updates for Center Valley service like Route 323 (Route 323 info).
At the airport, LANTA buses use the Lower Level near baggage claim at the multi‑modal pickup area. The airport has posted updates on bus arrival and departure locations, so it is wise to check before you travel (ABE bus pickup area update).
If you prefer not to drive, you can use rideshare, taxis, or on‑site rental cars. The airport maintains current pickup rules and rental information on its directions and parking pages (ABE directions and parking).
Regional drives from Center Valley
You are within easy reach of major cities for day trips and client meetings.
- New York City: about 85 to 90 miles, usually 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and destination in Manhattan (Center Valley to NYC distance).
- Philadelphia: about 50 to 60 miles, often 1 to 1.25 hours, with routes that may include I‑476 or I‑78/US‑22 depending on your destination (Center Valley to Philadelphia distance).
Construction watch on PA‑309
The intersection of PA‑309 and Center Valley Parkway is a known congestion point. PennDOT has a Route 309 at Center Valley Parkway improvement project planned, with public materials describing a conversion of the at‑grade intersection to a grade‑separated interchange as part of the work. Expect periodic construction impacts as the project advances and check the project page for updates and timing (PennDOT project page).
Quick travel tips
- Build in extra time during peak commute windows and before flights.
- Save the airport’s directions and parking page to confirm the best approach and pickup rules.
- If you plan to use LANTA, check routes and transfers on the day of travel.
- For Philadelphia or points south, consider the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension (I‑476) when traffic makes it favorable.
- Meeting someone at ABE by bus. Go to the Lower Level near baggage claim at the multi‑modal pickup area.
In Center Valley, smart routing can add back valuable time to your day. If you are relocating or looking for a home with easy access to I‑78, US‑22, and ABE, let local expertise guide your search. For discreet, high‑touch representation and neighborhood insight, reach out to The Rebecca Francis Team.
FAQs
How long is the drive from Center Valley to ABE?
- About 12 to 15 miles, typically 20 to 30 minutes in normal traffic; verify your route and timing before you go.
Which highways connect Center Valley to major interstates?
- PA‑309 is the primary connector to I‑78 and the US‑22 corridor, while PA‑378 runs north into Bethlehem for US‑22 access.
Can you take public transit from Center Valley to the airport?
- Yes; LANTA connects Center Valley to airport-serving routes through transfers, so check the latest schedules before you travel.
Where do buses pick up at ABE?
- At the Lower Level near baggage claim at the airport’s multi‑modal pickup area; confirm any updates on the airport’s site.
Is there construction that could affect my regular route to I‑78?
- PennDOT’s Route 309 at Center Valley Parkway improvement project may affect traffic; review the project page for current timing and impacts.
