Emergency Bridge Work Necessities Closure of Westbound Pa. Turnpike near Bensalem Exit

HARRISBURG, PA (12/09/2011)(readMedia)-- Work crews continue to make emergency repairs to a bridge expansion joint on the westbound Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstate 276) just west of the Bensalem Interchange (Exit No. 351) in Bensalem Township, Bucks County. Even though the roadway has reopened, travel lanes are restricted in the area, and the Turnpike warns of continuing backlogs and delays during rush hour and into the evening.

Motorists are encouraged to use an alternate route as follows: Exit at Bensalem and follow U.S. Route 1 South to State Route 132 West to State Route 611 South, reentering the Turnpike at the Willow Grove Interchange (No. 343).

The westbound backlog is likely to extend beyond the Turnpike's Delaware Valley Exit (No. 358) this afternoon as traffic volumes build. Westbound travelers should use caution near the Delaware River Bridge Toll Plaza and be prepared for slow-moving or stopped traffic.

Motorists entering the Turnpike westbound from Route 1 should also anticipate delays. Currently, only the right lane and shoulder are open to westbound traffic on I-276.

The emergency repairs are being performed on the expansion joint of a bridge that carries mainline Turnpike traffic over a railroad line near the Bensalem Interchange.

Turnpike travelers can tune to 1640 AM or call 866.976.TRIP (8747) for traffic conditions or check the online map at www.paturnpike.com/webmap before you depart.