Nighttime Bridge Work to Impact Traffic on Northeastern Extension

May 26, 2009

Contact: Mimi Lindelow, Public Involvement Specialist
Public Information
(610) 239-4117

Nighttime Bridge Work to Impact Traffic on Northeastern Extension
Utility work to be performed where Route 202 crosses the Turnpike at milepost A23.4

King of Prussia, PA (May 26, 2009) - The Pennsylvania Turnpike is advising motorists traveling the Northeastern Extension (I-476) between the Mid-County (Exit #20) and Lansdale (Exit #31) Interchanges to be prepared for bi-directional traffic paces with periodic full stoppages of up to 15 minutes to begin Wednesday night May 27 at 10 p.m. and conclude by 5 a.m. Thursday morning.

To protect utility workers and Turnpike travelers, while crews pull utility lines across I-476, where Route 202 crosses the Turnpike in Whitpain Township, Pennsylvania State Police cruisers will significantly slow (pace) traffic as motorists approach the work zone at milepost A23.4. This will allow enough time for the overhead work to be performed. This bi-directional traffic pace will require (15) minute stoppages in the vicinity of the overhead bridge.

The $12 million construction project to replace the Route 202 and Walton Road Bridges is part of the ongoing 10.5 mile Northeastern Extension Total Reconstruction and Widening project. Both bridges are being completed in two stages and remain open to traffic. The anticipated completion date for the project is July, 2010.

The general contractor, R. E. Pierson Construction Co., does not anticipate any impact to motorists traveling across the Route 202 Bridge in Whitpain Township. If there is inclement weather the work will be re-scheduled for the following night May 28 with times and operation information still applicable.

Motorists are urged to stay alert for stopped or slow moving traffic and obey posted speed limits. Speed limits will be enforced and fines doubled.

Motorists are well advised to take extra care and not speed through road work sites. Under state law: Fines for driving violations in active work zones, marked by flashing lights, are doubled. Motorists traveling 11 mph or more over the posted speed limit can lose their driver's licenses for 15 days. Points assessed to motorists' driving records are doubled for work zone infractions. Some work zones have signs requiring motorists to turn on headlights.

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