Pa. Turnpike Plans Overnight Traffic Paces Near Somerset This Weekend

NEW STANTON, PA (08/25/2011)(readMedia)-- Pennsylvania Turnpike motorists will encounter 20-minute traffic paces in both directions between Donegal (Exit 91) and Somerset (Exit 110) starting at 11:59 p.m. on Sat. Aug. 27 through 6 a.m. on Sun., Aug. 28, weather permitting.

Multiple traffic paces are needed to accommodate the erection of new steel beams for the bridge at milepost 100.5 that carries the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail over the Turnpike. The work area is located about 10 miles west of the Somerset Interchange.

During the 20-minute paces, state police will restrict the flow of traffic to a slow speed, allowing the contractor a window to set the overhead steel beams without jeopardizing motorist or worker safety.

Motorists in the area should be prepared for slow-moving traffic and possible intermittent stoppages.

Message boards will be in place to inform customers of the stoppages, and Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) broadcasts at station 1640 AM also are being used to inform travelers.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the owner of this bridge, is handling construction. The old trail bridge was removed in March 2010.

Turnpike travelers can get up-to-date 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 web cams, at-a-glance traffic-flow status, weather conditions, audio advisories and more.