News from Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission

For more information contact: Mimi Lindelow, 610-239-4117

PA Turnpike Northeastern Extension Toll Plaza Expansion Begins

Clarks Summit Interchange (#131) E-ZPass Upgrades and Toll Lanes Added

KING OF PRUSSIA, PA (07/16/2008; 1300)(readMedia)-- The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission is advising motorists that construction has begun, to expand the Clarks Summit Interchange (Exit #131), the northernmost portion of the Turnpike's Northeastern Extension. All existing E-ZPass and cash lanes will remain operational during the project. Motorists leaving the Turnpike system at the interchange can travel east on Route 6 to Carbondale and Wayne County; west on U.S. 6 to Towanda and Pennsylvania's Northern Tier; and north on I-81 to Binghamton and Syracuse New York.

On May 20, 2008, Locust Ridge Contractors, a division of Haines & Kibblehouse, Inc. was awarded the $4,395,816 contract to provide one (1) additional toll lane in each direction. Construction began on July 8, 2008, almost 18 years to the day since the existing interchange was built. In 1992, when the new interchange was being designed and constructed, engineers anticipated an increase in traffic volume and designed the interchange to accommodate today's toll plaza expansion. During this expansion lanes 2 and 5 have been reduced in width and message boards are posted urging motorists driving trucks, campers, and SUV's to use lanes 3 and 4.

This contract also provides for upgrades to the E-ZPass system and renovations to the existing fare collection office building. Motorists should expect varying single lane patterns when approaching the construction zone, during milling and paving on the interchange ramps, and barrier replacement. The anticipated date of completion is in late November 2008.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission advises motorists leaving the Turnpike system to access U.S. Routes 6 and 11, and Interstate 81 to be prepared for ongoing construction at the interchange. Motorists are urged to use caution and obey posted speed limits.