A portion of Lower Smith Gap Road that is east of Blue Mountain Drive is closed and will remain so for most of this week, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

Lower Towamensing and Eldred Township residents are to be advised that a drain replacement project is underway, causing closure at 940 Lower Smith Gap Road and resulting in a 12-mile detour.

Emergency responders, (police, fire and EMS) have implemented contingency plans for any emergencies east of the closure.

Monroe County emergency agencies will provide their assistance to reduce response time.