Ahead of a significant winter storm expected to hit Pennsylvania this weekend, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission are set to impose restrictions on commercial vehicles across the state’s Interstate network. These measures will begin at 12:01 AM on Sunday, January 25, in line with Tier 4 of the commonwealth’s weather event vehicle restriction plan.
The restrictions will apply to all Pennsylvania interstates, including major routes such as PA Turnpike I-76 and I-70, as well as several U.S. highways and state routes. During this period, no commercial vehicles, school buses, motor coaches, motorcycles, RVs/motorhomes, or passenger vehicles towing trailers will be allowed on these roads. Additionally, speed limits will be reduced to 45 mph for all vehicles on affected roadways.
PennDOT urges drivers to stay informed about weather conditions and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. “Drivers urged to watch weather forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel,” a statement from PennDOT reads. The agency also advises that any changes in restrictions will be communicated through variable message boards and the 511PA traveler information website.
For those who must travel despite the adverse conditions, PennDOT offers safety tips such as slowing down gradually and using headlights during snow squalls. Last winter saw over 8,000 crashes on snowy or icy roads in Pennsylvania, resulting in 29 fatalities.
Further information on safe winter travel can be found at www.PennDOT.pa.gov/winter. Drivers can access real-time traffic updates via www.511PA.com or through its smartphone app.
