PennDOT issues late Thursday morning update on vehicle restrictions, closures in region

CLEARFIELD, PA – Due to the severity of winter storm Diaz in the region, PennDOT has temporarily reduced the speed limit on some roads in the region.

PennDOT is urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel but those who must head out will still see speeds reduced to 45 mph on the following highways:

1. Interstate 80 through the region
2. Interstate 99—entire length
3. U.S. Route 322, Centre County through Juniata County

PennDOT is also advising drivers that I-80 westbound is closed at mile marker 185 in Clinton County. Traffic is being directed off the I-80 at exit 212B/Williamsport and onto I-180 and will follow Route 220 to reconnect with I-80 at the Lock Haven interchange. This closure is expected to be in place for several more hours.

Additionally, the following vehicle restrictions are in place:

Tier 4:
• I-80 from I-79 to I-99
On roadways with Tier 4 restrictions in place, no commercial vehicles are permitted. Additionally, all school buses, commercial buses, motor coaches, motorcycles, RVs/motorhomes and passenger vehicles (cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, etc.) towing trailers are not permitted on affected roadways while restrictions are in place.

Tier 3:
· I-99, entire length.
On roadways with Tier 3 restrictions in place, no commercial vehicles are permitted EXCEPT loaded single trailers and/or loaded enclosed cargo delivery/box trucks with chains or approved Alternate Traction Devices. Additionally, all school buses, commercial buses, motor coaches, motorcycles, RVs/motorhomes and passenger vehicles (cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, etc.) towing trailers are not permitted on affected roadways while restrictions are in place.

Tier 1:
· I-80 from I-99 to I-81

Under Tier 1 restrictions, the following vehicles are not permitted on affected roadways:
· Tractors without trailers;
· Tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded enclosed trailers, open trailers or tank trailers;
· Tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded tandem trailers;
· Enclosed unloaded or lightly loaded cargo delivery trucks/box trucks that meet the definition of a CMV;
· Passenger vehicles (cars, SUV’s, pickup trucks, etc.) towing trailers;
· Recreational vehicles/motorhomes;
· School buses, commercial buses and motor coaches; and
· motorcycles.

Although PennDOT crews have been treating roadways, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, not completely free of ice and snow. PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until precipitation stops and roads are clear.