Bridge Beam Delivery and Placement to Impact Route 248 Traffic

Nighttime stoppages expected next week in Parryville, Carbon County

HARRISBURG, PA (08/06/2010)(readMedia)-- The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission advises motorists traveling on Route 248 to be prepared for slow-moving and stopped traffic between Lehighton (Route 209) and Bowmanstown (Club Road) Aug. 11-13 during the delivery and placement of "super-load" beams for the new Lehigh River Bridge.

During placement of the (10) pre-stressed concrete beams on the new Lehigh River and Canal Bridges, motorists traveling eastbound and westbound on Route 248, between Route 209 and Club Road should anticipate periodic stoppages of up to 20 minutes (Wed. – Fri.) between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. the following morning.

On Aug. 11, Walsh Construction Company (WCC) the general contractor for the Turnpike's bridge project will begin delivering the beams to the project site where I-476 crosses Route 248, adjacent to the Lehigh River and Canal. During delivery, via Route 248 from Bowmanstown, motorists should anticipate slow-moving or stopped traffic in the area.

As the beams are transported to the area, four beams on Aug. 11 and three beams on Aug. 12 and 13, they will be staged in the closed lanes on Route 248 (adjacent to Rock Hill Concrete). When the beams are ready to be set in place, the contractor will conduct a complete traffic stoppage of up to 20 minutes per beam Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights. Traffic will be released after each stoppage and the area cleared before another stoppage begins.

The right-lane in both directions on Route 248 will be closed to traffic with enough distance at the point of stoppage to allow traffic in either direction to make U-turns or travel a different route. The contractor does not anticipate implementing a detour; however, should a detour become necessary the alternate route will be posted.

The schedule is dependent on weather and subject to change. For construction updates and travel information, visit the website at www.lehighbridge.com. Motorists are encouraged to plan travel accordingly. For emergencies, dial *11 on your mobile phone.

Motorists are urged to obey posted speed limits and use extra caution when approaching all construction zones. Speed limits will be enforced and fines increased.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is committed to distributing complete, accurate and consistent travel information and providing exceptional customer service. Visit the PA Turnpike website at www.paturnpike.com for project updates. Be in the know before you go and call 866.976.TRIP (866.976.8747).