Southbound Lehigh Tunnel Closure Scheduled Next Wednesday

KING OF PRUSSIA, PA (08/26/2011)(readMedia)-- The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission advises motorists traveling on the Turnpike's Northeastern Extension (I-476) to be prepared for a daytime single-lane pattern and two-way traffic in the Lehigh Tunnel, Wednesday, August 31. The southbound tube will be closed between 8 a.m.-2 p.m. to complete maintenance work cancelled earlier this week due to weather.

The Lehigh Tunnel is located at milepost A70-A71 between the Lehigh Valley (Exit #56) and Mahoning Valley (Exit #74). The work is weather permitting and subject to change.

I-476 motorists should stay alert when approaching the area and entering the tunnel. Motorists are urged to turn on headlights, slow down and keep an adequate distance from the vehicle you are following; remain in your lane and do not pass when traveling through the single-lane pattern in the tunnel. If you experience car trouble and cannot safely exit the tunnel, stay in your car, put on your hazard lights and wait for assistance from tunnel personnel.

Travel advisories will be posted at www.paturnpike.com and the Highway Advisory Radio (1640 AM) will be activated to provide travel updates. In case of an accident, breakdown or other emergency, motorists can utilize the yellow emergency call boxes on the shoulder or dial *11 or 1-800-332-3880 to receive aid. Be prepared to give your milepost location and direction of travel and move the involved vehicles out of active travel lanes if possible.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is committed to distributing complete, accurate and consistent travel information and providing exceptional customer service. Be in the know before you go and plan ahead – get real-time information about roadway conditions via the Turnpike Roadway Information Program, or "TRIP," by visiting www.paturnpike.com or calling 1-866-976-TRIP (8747).