Daytime tunnel maintenance will be impacting traffic on the Northeastern Extension (I-476) of the Pennsylvania Turnpike the first part of this week.

The turnpike commission advises motorists approaching the Lehigh Tunnel from the Lehigh Valley (Exit #56) and Mahoning Valley (Exit #74) Interchange, to be prepared for the southbound tunnel to be closed today,Tuesday and Wednesday.Between the hours of 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tuesday, southbound traffic will be diverted into the northbound tunnel tube. Motorists on I-476 approaching the Lehigh Tunnel should be prepared for bi-directional traffic in the northbound tube during the scheduled closures. If work Monday and Tuesday needs to be rescheduled, Wednesday is the back-up date with times and tunnel restrictions still applicable.Motorists 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 other vehicles when traveling through the single lane pattern in effect between milepost A72-A70. The work is weather sensitive and may be delayed or rescheduled.Changeable message signs will provide updated information and the Turnpike's Highway Advisory Radio (1640 AM) will be activated. Motorists are encouraged to plan their travel accordingly. For emergencies, dial *11 on your mobile phone.