Turnpike Lowers Speed Limit on 122-Mile Stretch in Western Pa.

The restrictions apply to both eastbound and westbound traffic on the 122-mile stretch of Turnpike from the Pa.-Ohio border (milepost 0) to the Allegheny Tunnel in Somerset County (milepost 122).

Turnpike snow-removal teams are actively plowing and salting throughout the region. Maintenance crews have begun to operate plow trains along the western roadway; the trains, made up of a convoy of four to five plow trucks staggered from median to shoulder, will be moving at a maximum of 35 mph. Turnpike travelers should stay well behind the trains that can severely restrict visibility in some cases.

Presently, traffic is light on the western Turnpike, with no major incidents or reported lane closures.

The Turnpike's Traffic Operations Center continues to monitor weather across the system. If conditions improve, the restrictions will be lifted at the suitable time. If conditions warrant, a reduced speed limit could be imposed on parts of the Pa. Turnpike east of the Allegheny Tunnel - in South Central Pa. and possibly Eastern Pa. - as the snowfall moves eastward over the next 12-14 hours.

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 entire Turnpike, including live web cams, at-a-glance traffic-flow status, weather conditions, audio advisories and more.