Pocono Race Fans Expected to Impact Traffic on Pennsylvania Turnpike this Weekend

Turnpike officials ask motorists to focus on road and expect delays on I-476 Mid-County-Clarks Summit

KING OF PRUSSIA, PA (07/29/2010)(readMedia)-- The Pennsylvania Turnpike's Northeastern Extension will remain at full capacity with no construction-related lane restrictions this weekend to facilitate increased traffic flow for the Pennsylvania 500 race at the Pocono Raceway. Motorists should anticipate delays at the Pocono (Exit #95) and Wilkes-Barre (Exit #105) Interchange for raceway fans exiting to travel PA940/I-80/PA115 and are advised to allow extra time for travel and seek alternate routes to avoid delays.

The lane restriction moratorium for on-going construction projects requiring lane closures on the Northeastern Extension (I-476) was implemented at 3 p.m. Thursday (7/29) and will remain in place until 6 a.m. Monday morning (8/2) when work will resume on the Lehigh River and Pohopoco Creek Bridge Project.

Construction activity between the Lehigh Tunnel and the Mahoning Valley Interchange (Exit #74) may take place behind the construction barrier with no impact to Turnpike traffic.

The Turnpike Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) will be activated and motorists can tune to 1640 AM for detour information and traffic conditions. Changeable message signs are currently in place to provide the traveling public with updated information regarding closures and detours. For emergencies, dial *11 on your mobile phone.

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 and www.lehighbridge.com for project updates. Be in the know before you go and call 866.976.TRIP (866.976.8747).