Left Lane Temporarily Closed, Speeds Lowered on Eastbound Pa. Turnpike near Irwin Exit

HARRISBURG, PA (02/01/2011)(readMedia)-- The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission alerts eastbound motorists approaching the Irwin Interchange (#67) in Westmoreland County that the left lane of the mainline just before the exit has been temporarily closed for emergency pavement repairs. The commission estimates that the lane will be closed more than two days until repairs are complete late Thursday night, Feb. 3.

A reduced, 45 mph speed limit is also now in effect for eastbound traffic approaching the area.

A large pothole developed in a temporary lane that is part of a Turnpike reconstruction and six-lane widening project, but provisional measures to patch the hole haven't held up due to fluctuating temperatures and other conditions. As a result, the Turnpike this morning dispatched a construction contractor to implement a sturdier repair using concrete. The contractor is now assembling the needed crews, equipment and materials and is expected to be mobilized and on site tomorrow - Wednesday, Feb. 2 - sometime in the late evening.

Until then, the left lane will remain closed as the pavement issues could pose a safety concern for motorists. The commission anticipates the single-lane pattern will be in place for 24 hours from the time work begins tomorrow night - including time needed for the repair and to allow the concrete to cure.

Travelers should anticipate slow-moving or stopped traffic in the eastbound lanes, especially during the afternoon and evening rush today, tomorrow and Thursday. Delays could occur anytime from noon until 8 p.m., with the heaviest congestion peaking between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible during those peak hours. Morning rush hour is also expected to see an increase in congestion on those days, but likely to a lesser degree.

The $150 million reconstruction and widening of the Turnpike between Irwin and New Stanton was begun in spring 2006 and is expected to be completed this fall. All major construction operations are currently shut down for the winter, including paving.

Turnpike travelers can get up-to-date travel information by calling 866.976.TRIP (or 866.976.8747). This toll-free number gives audio advisories for the region in which you are traveling, including delays and closures due to accidents or weather. To check conditions before you hit the road, the Turnpike's Interactive Travel Map at www.paturnpike.com/webmap delivers a snapshot of conditions across the Turnpike, including live web cams, at-a-glance traffic-flow status, weather conditions, audio advisories and more.