As released by the Pa Turnpike Commission.

HARRISBURG, PA. (JULY 18, 2014)

– The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) announced today that a 70 mph speed limit will be put in place on a 100-mile stretch of toll road in the south-central part of the state next week.

The 70-mph zone will be on the Turnpike mainline (Interstate 76) between the Blue Mountain Interchange (exit #201) and the Morgantown Interchange (exit #298) starting July 23.

“Our studies have shown that the design of our system in this area can safely accommodate the higher speed limit,” said Pa. Turnpike CEO Mark Compton. “But motorists must remember that it is their responsibly to drive safely and sensibly according to the traffic and weather conditions – especially when the pavement is slick from precipitation or when visibility is limited.”

The Turnpike plans a news conference next week to provide more detail on this and future speed-limit changes on its 550-plus mile system.

Until the new 70 mph signs are unveiled, motorists are reminded that they must heed the limits posted on all highway signs.

“The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) will be enforcing all posted speed limits just as they have in the past,” said Lt. Edward Murphy of PSP Troop T, the unit in charge of Turnpike patrols. “Strict enforcement of the new 70 mph speed limit will be observed by our troopers during all Turnpike speed-enforcement operations.”