The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission warned motorists to be prepared for delays at the Allegheny Tunnel in Somerset County beginning Monday through June 25 so turnpike crews can do annual maintenance work.
Starting at 8 a.m. Monday for several hours each day through Thursday and again on June 11 and 16, the westbound tunnel will close at milepost 122. A single-lane pattern will start through the section and two-way traffic will move to the eastbound tunnel.
On June 17, 18, 22, 23, 24 and 25, the eastbound tunnel will close at 8 a.m. each day. This means two-way traffic will be moving inside the westbound tunnel.
Each year, the tunnel is closed so crews can safely perform drainage work, replace lighting and update cameras as well as other maintenance work.
Drivers are urged to turn on headlights, slow down and keep an adequate distance from the vehicle you are following; remain in your lane and do not pass in the tunnel.
Anyone experiencing car trouble who cannot safely exit the tunnel is advised to stay in their car, put the hazard lights on and wait for assistance. Tunnel personnel will monitor closed-circuit cameras and send help for disabled vehicles, the agency said.
To report an accident or other emergency on the turnpike, motorists can dial *11 via mobile phone. Information is also available at paturnpike.com.
