PA Turnpike: Speeds Lowered, Crash Near Route 29 [Updated]

Update 3:45pm—The weather-related turnpike restrictions have been lifted from Morgantown to the Delaware River Bridge, which includes the portion closest to Malvern. From the PTC press release:

Due to the heavy snow, the 45 mph speed limit on the Pennsylvania Turnpike remains in effect between the Blue Mountain (Exit #201) and Morgantown (Exit #298) Interchanges and on the entire Northeastern Extension from Mid-County to Clarks Summit (Exit #131). Restrictions have been lifted from Morgantown to the Delaware River Bridge. 

Original story continues below

A crash on the PA Turnpike between the Downingtown and Route 29 interchanges closed a lane of eastbound traffic early Saturday afternoon, as heavy snowfall moved into the region. According to the turnpike website, the crash was moved off the roadway and cleared shortly before 1 p.m.

The Turnpike is operating under a Weather Emergency:

The Pennsylvania Turnpike is now operating under a Weather Emergency. Speed restrictions reduced to 45 mph. All travelers are urged to reduce their speeds and keep alert for changing travel conditions and Emergency crews working on the roadway. Do not attempt to pass turnpike trucks plowing or servicing the highway. Motorists operating trucks, campers and vehicles pulling trailers, your vehicles may become unstable during high wind conditions. Reduce your speed when you encounter high winds.

The full release regarding the speed limit is below:

PA Turnpike Lowers Speed Limit to 45 mph State-Wide

Lower speed limit now in place from Ohio line to Delaware River Bridge and Mid-County to Clarks Summit

Due to the heavy snow, the 45 mph speed limit on the Pennsylvania Turnpike has been expanded to include the stretch of toll highway from the Ohio line eastward to the Delaware River Bridge and north from Mid-County to Clarks Summit. A 45 mph speed limit restriction is now in place across the entire PA Turnpike state-wide. Motorists should not travel unless it is necessary.

Motorists operating trucks, campers and vehicles pulling trailers, your vehicles may become unstable during high wind
conditions.   Reduce your speed when you encounter high winds. 

Tow plows (large plows pulled behind a truck) and plow trains (several plow/salt trucks in a row) continue to operate across the Turnpike system; motorists should say far back from these vehicles. Do not attempt to pass any type of snow plow as road conditions in front are likely unfavorable.

Turnpike motorists will be alerted about any such restrictions via Variable Message Signs, Highway Advisory Radio station 1640 AM, and the Turnpike web site, www.paturnpike.com.

Please use caution when traveling in inclement weather. If you must be on the highway in this area, please visit www.paturnpike.com (select the "Traveler Info" menu on the left) or call or the Turnpike travel advisory hotline, 1-866-976-8747, to check conditions before you leave.

Dial *11 to report an emergency on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.