Media & Public Relations

HARRISBURG, PA (08/27/2011)(readMedia)-- The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission announced it has lowered the speed limit to 45 mph on eastern stretches of the highway due to deteriorating weather conditions from Hurricane Irene. Poor visibility and ponding water in some areas are creating hazardous travel conditions, and motorists are strongly encouraged to heed the restriction.

The 45 mph speed limit is in place for the Pa. Turnpike's east-west mainline from the Valley Forge Interchange (#326) east to the Delaware River Bridge Toll Plaza (#359) and on the Northeastern Extension from the Mid-County Interchange (#20) north to the Lansdale Interchange (#31).

The lower speed limit affects a total of 44 miles on the Turnpike. The restrictions could be expanded as weather conditions change.

In addition, the Pa. Turnpike has closed the Virginia Drive E-ZPass-Only Interchange (#340) due to flooding.

The Turnpike's Traffic Operations Center continues to monitor traffic and weather system-wide, and there are no accidents or delays at present. Turnpike traffic remains light in Southeastern Pennsylvania, the area now seeing the most rainfall. Would-be travelers, especially in the east, are reminded that the commonwealth is operating under a state of emergency; motorists should stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.

Turnpike travelers can get up-to-date information by calling 1-866-976-TRIP (8747). This toll-free number gives audio advisories for the region in which you are traveling, including delays and closures due to accidents or weather. Online, the Interactive Travel Map at www.paturnpike.com/webmap delivers a snapshot of conditions across the Turnpike, including traffic cams, at-a-glance traffic-flow status, weather conditions, audio advisories and more.

###