Kathy Liebler
                        Director of Public Information

C   O   M   M   I   S   S   I   O   N                N   E   W   S             R   E   L   E   A   S   E   

Contact:  Patricia L. Bodack, (724)755-5018
                or Joe Agnello, (724)755-5262

 The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is alerting motorists that beginning Monday, February 22, 1999, weather permitting, construction will take place on Interstate 70 and State Route 3091 near the New Stanton Interchange, Exit 8, on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, in Westmoreland County.

Motorists should expect a single lane traffic pattern on the eastbound lanes of I-70 and SR 3091 near the New Stanton Interchange. The single lane pattern will continue through Friday, March 5, 1999.

In addition, beginning Monday, March 1, 1999 through March 5, 1999, occasional traffic stoppages will occur in the construction area, each lasting no longer than 15 minutes in duration. No stoppages will occur on the mainline Turnpike. Also, eastbound I-70 traffic entering the Turnpike at New Stanton Interchange will be detoured over a small section of Turnpike 66, (the Amos K. Hutchinson Bypass) and SR119 South. The detour involves no toll charge, as it runs over the free section of Turnpike 66. The detour, which will be distinctly signed, will loop around the construction area and involve no toll charges for motorists. Variable message signs will be used to help direct and manage traffic.

These traffic restrictions are required for the demolition of the portion of the Turnpike’s New Stanton viaduct over the eastbound lanes of SR 70 and SR 3091.

Motorists are advised to anticipate delays and to take needed precautions for their travels in this area. Motorists are also urged to use caution in this and all construction areas and remember to give Pennsylvania Turnpike Highway Workers a "brake".

 P.O. Box 67676, Harrisburg, PA 17106-7676         Phone: (717) 939-9551         Fax: (717) 986-9649