News & Events

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is seeking motorists’ input on traffic safety and driving behaviors through its annual online Highway Safety Survey found at www.PennDOT.gov/Safety. PennDOT will use the feedback from this annual survey to better understand the attitude and actions of the public concerning a variety of driving behaviors. “Safety remains our top priority and we are grateful for the public’s continued engagement in making our roadways safer,” said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards. “The results from this annual survey help us gauge participants’ attitudes on highway safety and allow us to adjust our safety activities as we work to reduce crashes and fatalities.” The survey is … Continue reading →

With Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of the summer travel season, less than two weeks away, the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) encourage drivers to be safe on the roads. The agencies will work with municipal police departments and other safety partners across the commonwealth to participate in the national “Click It or Ticket” seat belt enforcement and education initiative from May 13 through June 2, 2019. “‘Click it or Ticket’ isn’t about citations, it’s about saving lives,” said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards. “Wearing a seat belt increases your chances of surviving a crash by up to 60 percent. Through continued … Continue reading →

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is proud to announce that optional REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and photo ID cards are now available for Pennsylvania residents who want one. A federally-accepted form of identification (whether it’s a Pennsylvania REAL ID driver’s license or ID card, a U.S. Passport/Passport Card, a military ID, etc.) must be used as identification to board a commercial flight or visit a secure federal building that requires ID at the door on and after October 1, 2020.There is no requirement that any resident obtain a REAL ID and PennDOT will continue to offer standard-issue driver’s licenses and photo IDs. Federal REAL ID regulations require that PennDOT … Continue reading →

As Pennsylvanians look ahead to Thanksgiving and the beginning of the busy holiday travel season, representatives from safety partners Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission gathered at Turnpike Commission headquarters to stress the importance of seat belts and sober driving during the holidays. November 19 marks the start of the nationwide Click It or Ticket “Operation Safe Holiday” enforcement effort, which sees law enforcement nationwide adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward traffic law violations, including driving under the influence. In addition to enforcement efforts, Operation Safe Holiday includes no-cost child passenger safety seat fitting clinics through December 2. Troopers and other … Continue reading →

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is seeking public input on highway topics such as traffic safety improvements and driving behaviors through its annual online highway safety survey accessible at www.penndot.gov. “We look to the public each year to gauge the public’s awareness and perception of highway safety efforts and solutions,” PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards said. “Safety remains our top priority and we thank the public for their participation because continued information sharing helps us review our efforts to reduce crashes and fatalities.” Expanding upon previous versions, this year’s survey aims to help identify why drivers engage in safe or unsafe driving behaviors. The department will review the … Continue reading →

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is urging residents and visitors to avoid driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol ahead of the Independence Day enforcement mobilization that runs June 25 through July 4, 2018. While the number of alcohol-impaired driving arrests and crashes have been trending downward in recent years, the occurrences of drug-impaired driving continue to increase statewide. Motorists are reminded to never drive impaired by illegal substances and always follow the warnings listed on any prescription or over-the-counter medications, as some medicines can impair driving abilities. To help deter impaired-driving, the regional DUI task forces, Pennsylvania State Police along with local law enforcement will … Continue reading →

Governor Tom Wolf was joined by Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Secretary Leslie S. Richards to discuss the details of Resurface PA, the administration’s new statewide initiative to accelerate repaving work on interstates and attack potholes across Pennsylvania. “This is a problem that plagues Pennsylvanians every year, but after this winter season we are accelerating repairs and much-needed projects to improve travel in the short-term and in the future,” said Governor Wolf. “Resurface PA is our latest step to improve roadways across the state and enhance our roadways’ safety and condition.” Following a long winter season with dramatic temperature swings, last week the governor announced that PennDOT is mounting … Continue reading →

With Memorial Day weekend and the summer travel season approaching, the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and municipal departments across Pennsylvania today announced that they will partner to participate in the national “Click It or Ticket” seat belt enforcement from May 14 through June 3, 2018. Pennsylvania law requires drivers and passengers younger than 18 to buckle up when riding in a vehicle. After turning 18, drivers and passengers must wear a seat belt when behind the wheel or in the front passenger seat. During “Click It or Ticket,” law enforcement adopts a zero-tolerance approach toward violators. As part of the enforcement, PSP, … Continue reading →

With this season’s dramatic swings between unseasonable warmth and typical winter conditions, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation crews continue to address the growing number of potholes on state-maintained roads. “Potholes can form literally overnight and that’s what we’re seeing with these temperature swings,” PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards said. “This year we are seeing more concerns than usual and our crews are working aggressively to make repairs whenever weather permits.” Through the end of February, PennDOT crews had used more than 9,627 tons of asphalt repairing potholes statewide, equal to the weight of roughly 627 PennDOT dump trucks. In comparison, by the same time in 2017 PennDOT had used … Continue reading →

If you have a maintenance concern related to a state-maintained road, such as potholes or dead deer, you can report it to PennDOT by calling 1-800-FIX-ROAD or visiting- https://customercare.penndot.gov/.

Last week, crews completed the final paving of Interstate 81 North near the Pittston Exit.  This was the last major disruption to traffic as a result of the replacement of four interstate bridges near Exit 175 (Dupont/Pittston).  But this was also one of the most significant steps in a decade of bridge replacements on I-81 in northern Luzerne and southern Lackawanna Counties.  In each case, an old 2-lane bridge was replaced with a new 3-lane bridge.  Replacing a 2-lane bridge with a 3-lane bridge not only allows future maintenance to be performed without taking the interstate down to a single lane, but it is also a necessary prerequisite … Continue reading →

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) are encouraging motorists to take advantage of safety seat check resources across the state as the agencies mark National Child Passenger Safety Week from September 17 through September 23. Additionally, Saturday, September 23, has been designated as “National Seat Check Saturday.” To advance their public-safety missions, the agencies invest in community resources across the state. PennDOT funds resources such as training and educational materials for more than 170 fitting stations across Pennsylvania. The PSP checked more than 1,780 seats last year and found  more than 870 misuses by drivers. The checkups are designed to teach proper installation … Continue reading →

The Wolf Administration is seeking motorists’ input on highway safety, traffic safety enforcement, and driving behaviors through an annual online survey located on PennDOT’s website and Facebook page. “Safety is our top priority and we value continued public engagement in making our roadways safer,” said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards. “The results help us gauge public knowledge and attitudes on highway safety, and potentially allow us to adjust our safety activities so we can further reduce crashes and fatalities.” The brief survey will be available until September 27 and focuses on highway safety issues such as seat belts, impaired driving, speeding, motorcycles, and distracted driving. People completing the … Continue reading →

The Wolf Administration is encouraging the public to visit the “Historic Holiday Traffic” page at www.511PA.com so they can plan optimal travel times on major roadways across the state for the Labor Day holiday. “This is another great opportunity to put our traffic information tools into action for the public,” Governor Tom Wolf said. “Providing this real-time information allows travelers to choose the route that best works for them as they explore Pennsylvania’s many tourism attractions this holiday weekend.” The site, which is compatible with mobile devices, allows users to see how traffic speeds on the Friday before and day of Labor Day in 2015 and 2016 compare … Continue reading →

If you have maintenance concerns on a state-maintained highway, such as potholes or a dead deer, call I-800-FIX-ROAD or visit https://customercare.penndot.gov/.

On August 12 and 13, 2017, there will be major issues on Interstate 81 near Exit 182- Davis Street and Montage Mountain Rd, Moosic.  The Peach Music Festival, a four-day music festival, will be held at Montage Mountain from August 10-13.  In addition, the Northeast Pennsylvania Air Show will be held on August 12 and 13 at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport at Exit 178.  In addition to traffic issues on Interstate 81, the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike will be closed between exits 115 and 131 for safety reasons. Scheduled closures are from 12:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Aug. 11, and from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. … Continue reading →

The Wolf Administration, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), and local police urge travelers across the state to designate a sober driver and buckle their seat belts through the Independence Day holiday weekend. Partnerships throughout the state look to decrease alcohol and drug-related crashes and fatalities, as well as aggressive driving behavior. “PennDOT is working closely with our partners in law enforcement to reduce impaired driving and raise safety awareness this holiday,” Secretary Leslie S. Richards said. “Though Independence Day is a time for celebration, we urge Pennsylvanians to designate a sober driver and wear their seat belt throughout the coming weekend, and … Continue reading →

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today launched a video to assist Pennsylvanians in navigating roundabouts. The video instructs viewers how to use both single and multi-lane roundabouts whether in a vehicle, on a bicycle or on foot. The video can be accessed by visiting the roundabout page on www.penndot.gov or by visiting the department’s YouTube channel. “Data shows that modern-day roundabouts reduce crash severity and injuries while improving traffic flow,” said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards. “This video illustrates how to navigate these intersections regardless of how you travel.” A modern roundabout is a type of circular intersection where traffic flows continuously in a … Continue reading →

PennDOT Announces a Condensed, Comprehensive & Consolidated Summer Maintenance Plan for Interstate 81 in Lackawanna County Motorists should avoid the area from May 1 to May 20 if possible.    During the first three weeks in May, PennDOT will conduct extensive maintenance on Interstate 81 in Lackawanna County.  In order to improve travel for motorists during the busy summer travel season between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the department will consolidate numerous projects into a condensed 3-week timeframe in May on this section of highway.  While this will allow for much better travel over the summer months, it will create major delays on the interstate during the first … Continue reading →

With snow already visiting some areas of Pennsylvania, PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards today outlined the agency’s plans for winter services and encouraged drivers to be prepared as well. “Our residents count on PennDOT to keep them moving regardless of the weather and we take that mission very seriously,” Richards said during a news conference at the PennDOT maintenance facility in Norristown, Montgomery County. “We have our materials and equipment in place and our staff of dedicated equipment operators, district-level staff and staff in Maintenance and Operations are ready to go.” This winter, all of the more than 2,200 PennDOT-owned and rented plow trucks will be equipped with … Continue reading →

The Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) invite parents and caregivers to make this holiday season a safer one by taking advantage of free car seat checks across the state that will complement the nationwide Click It or Ticket “Operation Safe Holiday” enforcement effort occurring from November 20 through December 4. Troopers and other department members certified as Child Passenger Safety Technicians will conduct no-cost car seat fittings, at various locations from November 14 through November 27, no appointment necessary. Car seats will be checked for suitability, and participants will receive instruction on proper installation and child restraint. For a complete list of child … Continue reading →

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and Pennsylvania State Police are encouraging motorists to properly restrain children and educate themselves on the updated child passenger safety law as the agencies mark National Child Passenger Safety Week on September 18 through September 24. Additionally, Saturday, September 24 has been designated as “National Seat Check Saturday.” “PennDOT urges parents and guardians to remain informed as child safety laws and seats evolve,” PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards said. “We encourage the public to take advantage of our seat checks and educational materials throughout the year to ensure that each child gets to their destination safely.” PennDOT funds resources such as training and educational materials for 171 fitting stations across Pennsylvania, and the Pennsylvania State Police check more … Continue reading →

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, (PennDOT) is seeking motorists’ input on highway safety, traffic safety enforcement and driving behaviors through an online survey at www.penndot.gov/safety. “Our top priority continues to be safety,” PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards said. “Public input through this survey allows us to quantify and adjust our safety efforts while gauging participants’ knowledge of the consequences of unsafe behaviors.” The brief survey will be available until August 23 and focuses on highway safety issues such as seat belts, impaired driving, speeding, motorcycles and distracted driving. People completing the survey may remain anonymous, but are asked to provide their gender, age and county of residence. More … Continue reading →

PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards is using a personal approach in a new program aimed at delivering an important safety message to young drivers who are convicted of moving traffic violations. Recently, drivers age 16 through 20 cited for driving infractions received a personal letter from Richards reminding them of the importance of obeying the law and the consequences of poor driving habits so early in their driving experience. “The issue of young drivers definitely hits home with me as it does with any parent. Car crashes are the number one cause of death among 16- through 20-year-olds in Pennsylvania,” Richards said.  “If we can save one young driver … Continue reading →

PennDOT Reminds Drivers to Focus Full Attention on the Road The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation joins the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in recognizing April as National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and reminds all motorists that driving is a skill that requires their undivided attention. “Every time someone diverts their attention from the task of driving – even for a second – they are putting themselves and others at risk,” said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards.  “Driving is a skill that requires one hundred percent of your attention one hundred percent of the time.” Distracted driving is any action that draws attention away from the safe operation of … Continue reading →

Please be advised that the Central Scranton Expressway will be closed from Friday night April 22, 2016 at 9 p.m. it will remain closed until Sunday, evening April 24, 2016 till 9 p.m. when it will reopen.   A detour will be set up on Friday, April 22 through Sunday April 24.  There will be alternate lane closures on I-81 to modify overhead signs.  The work is being done to install quick curb to address cross-over issues on the main line.  Also emergency pavement pairs will be done on the main line. The routes to be closed: SR 3022 inbound and outbound for the entire SR SR 8025 Cedar … Continue reading →

I-81 Single Lane Closure:  There will be a single lane closure on I-81 North near mile marker 173 in order to set four beams on the bridge that goes over Westminster Road.  Each beam is 8 feet high, 172 feet long and 240,000 lbs each.  This lane closure will take place from Thursday, October 8 at 8 p.m. to Friday, October 9 at 6 a.m. I-81 Split:  Beginning next week crews will begin to set up a split pattern on I-81 North.  As motorists head north on I-81, they will need to make a lane decision approximately one mile before Exit 175 (Pittston).  Motorists in the right lane … Continue reading →

As the new school year gets underway, motorists need to be vigilant in order to avoid potentially tragic crashes and strong penalties as school buses return to the roads to pick up students waiting for a ride. “Our lives are filled with distractions, but we simply must put them aside and focus on the road ahead when we get behind the wheel,” said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards. “Even a momentary distraction – especially around school buses and in school zones — can lead to tragedy.” Motorists approaching a school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended are required to stop in all directions at … Continue reading →

June 19, 2015 Dunmore, PA – The region’s first roundabout will soon open as part of the $42 million Airport Interchange project, PennDOT Assistant District Executive for Construction, Harold Hill said today. PennDOT hosted a preview of the roundabout at the Wilkes Barre/Scranton Airport. PennDOT data for its first 16 roundabouts shows that fatalities and major injuries were reduced by 100 percent – fatalities went from two to zero and major injuries went from six to zero.  Moderate and minor injuries were reduced by nearly 50 percent – moderate injuries were reduced from 30 to seven and minor injuries were reduced from 30 down to 19. There are … Continue reading →

Harrisburg, PA – Following a colder-than-average winter and weeks of dramatic temperature swings, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation acting Secretary Leslie S. Richards today advised Pennsylvanians that PennDOT crews are aggressively tackling the growing number or potholes appearing on state-owned roadways. “We’ve had a rough couple of winters, including repeated rounds of freeze/thaw cycles,” Richards said. “Our road crews are out there working as quickly as possible to address potholes, and we’re asking motorists for help by informing us about where there are roadway concerns.” In addition to the potholes addressed through continued monitoring by PennDOT crews, more than 3,600 pothole concerns have been reported to PennDOT and nearly … Continue reading →

Dunmore, PA – With numerous potholes appearing on area roadways following a colder-than-average winter, PennDOT’s District 4 region on Monday will launch an intensive pothole-repair effort on state-owned roads in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties. With area asphalt plants expected to be open by April 6, the effort will run April 6-17 and aims to address at least 80 percent of the potholes reported on state roads in the region. The public is encouraged to report pothole locations on state roads by calling 1-800-FIX-ROAD with specific location details. Reported potholes remaining after April 17 will be addressed as soon as possible. PennDOT’s plans for the … Continue reading →

Harrisburg – Although winter weather still has an icy grip on the commonwealth, through the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP), PennDOT has begun offering all riders – from novice to experienced – a chance to take advantage of valuable safety training before hitting the road for the riding season. Registration is now open for all PAMSP courses, which are free to Pennsylvania residents who have a motorcycle learner’s permit or motorcycle license. All training courses are conducted on a riding range, under the supervision of certified instructors. “Both new and seasoned riders can benefit from the valuable skills offered through Pennsylvania’s free motorcycle training,” said Acting PennDOT Secretary … Continue reading →

1/9/2015 Harrisburg – With Pennsylvania experiencing winter weather and freezing temperatures, PennDOT is marking the state’s Winter Driving Awareness Week by encouraging drivers to be sure they’re ready this season.  Winter Driving Awareness Week, Jan. 11-17, highlights the need for motorists to keep safety in mind throughout the winter season. “Winter Driving Awareness Week calls our attention to the need for increased preparation and caution during the season,” PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch said. “We all have the responsibility to be sure our vehicles are ready to deal with winter driving before we leave home.”  “If they haven’t already done so, drivers should get their vehicles serviced by … Continue reading →

Pa. Turnpike Traffic Advisory for Motorists Traveling the Northeastern Extension Near Clarks Summit The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission advises motorists entering the Northeastern Extension (I-476) from Clarks Summit (Exit #131) to be prepared for a new traffic pattern to begin on Dec. 18 in the work zone at milepost A129. Starting at approximately 7 a.m., southbound traffic will be switched from the left lane into the right lane. This temporary lane configuration is expected to remain in place until spring 2016. This schedule is dependent on the weather and current construction operations. Slow-moving traffic paces, with stoppages as needed, will be necessary to complete the traffic switch. The contractor, … Continue reading →

With weather forecasts calling for potential wintry mixes or accumulating snow on Wednesday, PennDOT is urging drivers to be prepared and change travel plans if necessary. “We all want to visit our friends and families this Thanksgiving, but I urge all motorists to be prepared for potential winter road conditions and consider altering travel if necessary,” PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch said. “Our first priority should be to arrive safely, even if it takes more time to reach our destinations. PennDOT crews across the state are monitoring forecasts and will be prepared to tackle wintry conditions. PennDOT expects to extend crew shifts to have 24-hour coverage and will … Continue reading →

Dunmore – On Saturday, November 15 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. there will be a single lane closure on Interstate 81 South between Exit 191A (Dickson City) and Exit 190 (Main Avenue) in order to remove the barrier and open the ramp from Main Ave to I-81 South.  Once the ramp is open, the majority of the work in this area will be complete. In the spring, crews will go back and do final paving in the southern end of the project and through the rock cut area between the Scranton Expressway and Clarks Summit.   They will also complete final paving on four ramps in the area.  … Continue reading →

State Police and PennDOT are encouraging motorists to participate in free child passenger safety seat checkups throughout Pennsylvania as the agencies mark National Child Passenger Safety Week, Sept. 14 – 20. Additionally, Saturday, Sept. 20, has been designated as “National Seat Check Saturday.” “I urge all parents and caregivers to not only get their seats checked, but also to explore all educational materials available to them,” PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch said. “PennDOT, police departments and safety partners across the state are available year-round to ensure children are legally and correctly restrained.” PennDOT funds resources such as training and educational materials for 145 fitting stations across Pennsylvania, at … Continue reading →

Beginning on Wednesday, July 16 at 6 a.m., Interstate 81 North will be in a single lane pattern between Exit 191B (Scranton Expressway) and Exit 194 (Clarks Summit).  This single lane pattern will be in place until the end of July. Because the contractor will be completely removing all the asphalt, down to the concrete base, it will require a continual single lane pattern for two weeks.  It will not be possible to reopen the road during the day, as we would normally due in an area like this, because the lane that is under construction is being completely removed. This work is part of an ongoing $35 … Continue reading →

7/7/2014 One Death, Reports of Intrusions Raise Concerns Following the June 1 death of a Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission worker in a work-zone crash and reports of public vehicles entering work zones or narrowly missing workers, PennDOT and the commission today called on drivers to use caution and obey laws in work zones. “There will be a lot of construction work this year because of our transportation plan, so PennDOT and other roadway workers will be a common sight,” PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch said. “These are men and women who are working literally inches from passing traffic – it’s a very important, but very dangerous job.” Turnpike Commission … Continue reading →

June 12, 2014 Pittston – PennDOT and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) announced today that as part of a long-range plan to address congestion in the Interstate 81 corridor, an engineering study will soon start to determine the feasibility of utilizing a portion of the turnpike, Interstate 476, as a bypass around Scranton. “Traffic continues to be a growing concern in the Scranton area. Thanks to Governor Corbett’s decisive action to deliver Act 89, we now have the resources necessary to consider this option to use the turnpike as a relief route for traffic on I-81,” said PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch. Turnpike Chief Executive Officer Mark Compton … Continue reading →

Harrisburg – People traveling through Pennsylvania can now get better traffic information before and during a trip with PennDOT’s new, free 511PA mobile application. The application, available for iPhone and Android devices, provides hands-free and eyes-free travel alerts for the nearly 40,000 miles of road that PennDOT maintains, the Pennsylvania Turnpike and select New Jersey and West Virginia roadways. Users can also check the application before they travel to view traffic speeds, cameras and travel alerts. “Our mission is to provide better mobility in Pennsylvania, and that includes making sure that our customers are well informed for their travel plans,” PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch said. “This application … Continue reading →

June 5, 2014 Single Lane Closure, I-81 North for Emergency Bridge Repair Dunmore – There is a single lane closure on Interstate 81 North near Exit 164 (Nanticoke) for emergency bridge repair.  Anticipated reopening is today at 3 p.m. Major delays are expected in the area, and motorists should seek alternate routes.  

Dunmore:   The NEPA Child Passenger Safety Task Force and P&R Discount, Eynon will sponsor a Car Seat Bounty Program on Friday, May 2, 2014 at PennDOT 55 Keystone Industrial Park, Dunmore from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. “Clean out your attics, garages and closets and bring your old or broke car seat,” said Cathy Connors, Pennsylvania Chapter of the America Academy of Pediatrics, and bring them to PennDOT in Dunmore on Friday and get a reward of a discount for a new car seat and we will dispose of the car seat for you. Car seats older than 6 years, have broken parts or have already been in … Continue reading →

Harrisburg – Pennsylvanians will see $2.1 billion worth of highway and bridge improvements this year, $600 million more than originally anticipated due to the state’s new transportation plan, and representatives from PennDOT and the Pennsylvania State Police today reminded motorists to drive carefully through the hundreds of work zones they’ll encounter this construction season. Officials gathered at a Harrisburg-area PennDOT maintenance facility in recognition of National Work Zone Awareness Week, which runs from April 7 through April 11. “We are asking drivers to use extra caution in work zones so all of us can get home safely,” said PennDOT Executive Deputy Secretary Brad Mallory. “With crews working right … Continue reading →

Preparation is one key to successfully navigating winter roads. Winter weather can bring unexpected conditions, so make sure that both you and your vehicle are ready for ice and snow.  Learn more about winter driving tips, getting your vehicle ready for winter and what to include in your winter driving kit at Just Drive PA.  http://www.justdrivepa.org/Traffic-Safety-Information-Center/Winter-Driving/

Dunmore – There will be a single lane closure on Interstate 81 South just before Exit 178A (Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Airport) on Thursday, March 20th between 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Nyleve Bridge Corporation will be installing beams on the bridge over Plane Street, Avoca as part of the $41.9 Million Airport Reconstruction Project and traffic will be down to a single lane. To avoid the major delays that are expected in the area, motorists are urged to use I-476 (Turnpike/toll) from Clarks Summit (Exit 194 on Interstate 81) to Wyoming Valley (Exit 115 on the Turnpike), and then return to I-81 South. The Airport Project is unique to District … Continue reading →

Dunmore – Due to the extreme temperature fluctuations across the region, there are a higher number of potholes on the roads.  PennDOT is aware of the situation, and is actively working to repair the roads as quickly as possible.  However, until the ground temperature rises to at least 45 degrees, permanent repairs cannot be made, and potholes can only be temporarily filled with cold patch.  When the ground temperature is warmer, crews will go back and complete the repair in a more permanent manner. The following is a list of just some of the places where crews will be working throughout the week of March 10-16 along the … Continue reading →

Jan. 29, 2014 Interstate 81 North is closed at Exit 184 (River Street) due to a multi-vehicle crash.  Emergency responders are on the scene and the road will reopen as soon as possible.  To avoid the accident, if you are traveling north of Scranton, take the PA Turnpike north beginning at the Wyoming Valley Interchange (Pittston). Media contact: James May, 570-963-4044 Source: PennDOT District 4  

Dunmore– There will be a single lane closure on Interstate 81 North tonight, December 23rd, between Exit 170B (Wilkes Barre) and Exit 175 (Dupont/Pittston) due to a hole on a bridge.  Crews are on the scene now, working under the bridge to prepare for the emergency lane closure which will take place around 3:30/4:00 p.m and will last approximately 2 hours.  Motorists are advised to seek an alternate route as major delays are expected in the area. Media contact: James May, 570-963-4044  

Dunmore : There will be a single lane closure from 6 p.m. Thursday, December 19 to 6 a.m. Friday,  December 20 to switch traffic on to the new portion of the bridge deck on I-81 North at Exit 191 (Dickson City).  During  the traffic-switch, the contractors will have to close the off-ramp from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. to complete the process.  The work will be completed by 6 a.m. Friday, December 20. Motorists should use caution when traveling in the area.   The work is part of major rehabilitation improvement project on Interstate 81 in Lackawanna County.  The two-year, $30 million project will take place between Exit 188 … Continue reading →

December 13, 2013 – Beginning at 11:15 this morning, PennDOT crews will perform emergency bridge repairs on Interstate 81 North at Exit 190 (Dickson City/Main Ave). This bridge is in the process of being replaced, but a large hole has opened up on the portion that has not yet been replaced.  The area is scheduled to be down to a single lane until 5 p.m.  Unfortunately, because this is a Friday, two weeks before Christmas,  – MAJOR DELAYS ARE EXPECTED AND MOTORISTS SHOULD AVOID THE AREA IF POSSIBLE. This portion of the bridge is scheduled to undergo repairs as soon as traffic can be switched over to the section … Continue reading →

There will be a single lane closure on Interstate 81 North and South at Exit 190 (Main Avenue) from tonight at 6 p.m. to Thursday at 6 a.m. and from Thursday at 6 p.m. to Friday at 6 a.m.  This is in preparation for a traffic switch in this area and the next phase of work. As part of the next phase in this project, the ramp from Main Avenue to I-81 North will be closed until spring of 2014.  This closure will take place as soon as possible (perhaps tonight), but is weather dependent. Normally, PennDOT would avoid closing this area during the Christmas shopping season; however, … Continue reading →

With Older Driver Safety Awareness Week being recognized nationally through Dec. 6, older drivers, their friends and families are advised that Pennsylvania has several resources available to help keep drivers of all ages safe. “As Pennsylvania’s population ages and the number of older drivers on the highways rise, balancing the need for mobility among older drivers with safety on our roadways remains an important part of PennDOT’s mission,” PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch said. “It is vital that older drivers and their families keep an open dialogue and work together to identify any potential issues, and take advantage of the available courses and information to keep safe driving … Continue reading →

Harrisburg – With winter weather affecting much of Pennsylvania and the Thanksgiving travel period under way, PennDOT today urged motorists to use caution and allow extra time to reach their destinations. “The Thanksgiving travel period tends to bring the highest volume of traffic to our roadways and, unfortunately, it has the highest number of crashes compared to other holidays as well,” PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch said. “Drivers should build extra travel time into their schedules, especially with varying winter weather across the state.” With weather forecasts ranging from heavy rains to significant snowfalls, motorists will encounter different driving conditions, and PennDOT will handle each precipitation type differently. … Continue reading →

Travel Advisory Nov. 18, 2013 Ramp and Lane Closure on I-81 North Dunmore – There will be a single lane closure on Interstate 81 North at Exit 190 (Dickson City/Main Ave) from Tuesday 11/19 at 6 p.m. to Wednesday 11/20 at 6 a.m. and again on Wednesday 11/20 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. During these times, the ramp from Main Avenue to I-81 North will also be closed.  Crews will be completing temporary paving from the on-ramp to the driving lane of I-81 North. Media contact: James May, 570-963-4044 Source: PennDOT District 4

People who have been killed or injured in highway crashes will be remembered at a candlelight vigil on Sunday, Nov. 17, at 6 p.m. in front of the Lackawanna County Courthouse in Scranton. Part of the World Day of Remembrance observance, the first-time local event is dedicated to the victims of traffic crashes. It will also pay tribute to their families and to emergency responders and others who deal with the traumatic aftermath of road deaths and injuries. City resident Eileen Miller, whose son, Paul, was killed in a 2010 crash in Monroe County, and county Commissioner Patrick O’Malley are co-chairmen of the event.

The Focus 81 Committee hosted an anniversary event celebrating ten years of service to Northeastern Pennsylvania. The Focus 81 Committee, formed by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance, began addressing safety and congestion issues on Interstate 81 between Waverly in Lackawanna County and Nanticoke in Luzerne County in 2003. Jeffrey Box, President and CEO of the NEPA Alliance welcomed attendees to the celebration and outlined how the NEPA Alliance has been instrumental in coordinating efforts for the committee over the past 10 years. Thomas E. Lawson, P.E., P.L.S., Executive Vice President of Borton-Lawson Engineering and Architecture and chair of the Focus 81 Committee, then discussed the key accomplishments of the … Continue reading →

Emergency Lane Closure on I-81, Main Avenue Bridge Dunmore – There is a single lane closure on Interstate 81 North at Exit 190 (Main Avenue) for emergency bridge repairs.  A large hole has opened up on the bridge, and crews will be working throughout the day to complete the repairs.  Major delays are expected in the area, and motorists are urged to seek alternate routes, such as I-476 (Turnpike/toll).  

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation today announced that all driver license and photo centers, including its full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Saturday, Oct. 12, through Monday, Oct. 14, in observance of Columbus Day. Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website, www.dmv.state.pa.us. Driver and vehicle online services are available 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week and include driver’s license, photo ID and vehicle registration renewals; driver-history services; changes of address; driver license and vehicle registration restoration letters; ability to pay driver license or vehicle insurance restoration fee; driver license and photo ID duplicates; and driver exam scheduling. … Continue reading →

Harrisburg – State Police and PennDOT are encouraging motorists to participate in free child passenger safety seat checkups throughout Pennsylvania as the agencies mark National Child Passenger Safety Week, Sept. 15 – 21. In addition, Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, has been designated as “National Seat Check Saturday.” “I urge all parents and caregivers to get their seats checked,  because using the right seat in the right position is so important to children’s  safety,” PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch said. “Anyone who transports children has the responsibility to make sure they’re legally and correctly secured –  that’s why we work with police and safety partners to make child safety … Continue reading →

Keyser Avenue to Close for Three Days Dunmore – From the evening of Friday, September 13 to the morning of Monday, September 16, Keyser Avenue will be closed between Division/Dalton Street and Continental Street/Ransom Road.  The road is being closed in order to replace a box culvert at the bridge over the Lucky Run Creek near Continental/Ransom Road.  The decision was made to completely close Keyser for this weekend in order to expedite the necessary repairs.  If the repairs were done without closing the road, it would have been necessary to build a temporary bridge over the creek, thereby increasing the cost and extending the expected completion date … Continue reading →

News for Immediate Release Aug. 28, 2013 New Weight Restrictions Coming to 39 State Bridges in Region Dunmore—Thirty nine state-owned bridges in PennDOT District 4’s six-county region will be posted with new or lowered weight restrictions to slow the rate of deterioration of those bridges and ensure safety. Those structures are among about 1,000 structurally deficient bridges statewide that PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch authorized for new or added weight restrictions on Thursday. The restrictions will also apply on 48 county and locally owned bridges in the District 4 area of Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming counties. PennDOT is taking this step because legislative inaction on … Continue reading →

There will be a public meeting to discuss the I-81 Drinker Street Exit project on Monday, August 26 at 7 p.m. at the Dunmore Community Center 1414 Monroe Ave, Dunmore, PA.   The project involves the widening of the SR 81 Drinker ST NB Exit, the addition of a new signal at the exit, and the coordination of the new signal with the Meade St. signal. The project is in the engineering and design stages.   The let date is March 2015 and construction should start June 2015..   The purpose of this meeting is to provide the PennDOT staff an opportunity to explain the  project and answer questions on an information basis.   … Continue reading →

I-81 NORTHBOUND BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT IN SYRACUSE NY TO BEGIN AUGUST 9  The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) advises motorists that the bridges carrying northbound I-81 over East Calthrop Avenue and East Castle Street will have their decks replaced beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, August 9.  Work will take place around-the-clock over the ensuing ten days and the bridges are expected to be re-opened to traffic on Monday, August 19.  The deck replacement work in this northbound direction of I-81 will be the same as the recently completed work in the southbound direction.  Precast concrete deck panels will be used to significantly reduce the construction duration. … Continue reading →