On Sunday, February 22, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission will implement vehicle restrictions on several major roadways in anticipation of snow across the state. The restrictions are set to begin at 3:00 PM and will affect multiple interstates and sections of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
The agencies say these measures are intended to enhance safety as snowfall rates could reach up to 1.5 inches per hour. Drivers are urged to monitor weather forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel, and exercise caution if they must be on the roads. According to the official announcement, “Drivers urged to watch weather forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel.”
Restrictions will apply under Tier 1 of the commonwealth’s weather event vehicle restriction plan. Affected routes include I-76, I-78, I-80 from I-81 to New Jersey, I-81, I-83, I-84, I-95, I-283, I-295, I-380, I-476, I-676, Route 33, U.S. 22 from I-78 to New Jersey, PA Turnpike segments including Carlisle (Exit 226) to PA Turnpike I-276 and the Northeast Extension. Vehicles not permitted during this period include tractors without trailers; tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded trailers; certain cargo delivery trucks; passenger vehicles towing trailers; recreational vehicles; school buses; commercial buses; motor coaches; and motorcycles.
Speed limits may be reduced to 45 mph for all vehicles while restrictions are in place. Commercial vehicles not affected by these restrictions must use the right lane. Additional speed restrictions may be implemented depending on changing conditions.
Last winter in Pennsylvania saw preliminary data showing 8,329 crashes resulting in 29 fatalities and nearly 3,000 injuries on snowy or icy roads. Eleven fatalities involved unbelted occupants and seventeen occurred when drivers were traveling too fast for conditions or left their lanes.
Travelers can find updated information about road conditions and vehicle restrictions at www.511PA.com or through the free 511PA smartphone app. More details about safe winter travel can be found at www.PennDOT.pa.gov/winter.
