Lane restrictions to cause delays on I-81 in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties

DUNMORE, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Motorists are being urged to plan ahead and consider alternate routes as multiple lane restrictions are set to impact Interstate 81 in both Lackawanna and Luzerne counties.

PennDOT says the work begins Sunday night and includes a series of closures and slowdowns tied to ongoing roadwork, maintenance, and utility projects. Significant delays are expected in several areas.

Key impacts include:

Lackawanna CountyStarting Sunday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m.: The Biden Expressway will be reduced to one lane as part of the I-81/84 pavement and restoration project, which is expected to continue through winter 2026.Sunday, April 26 (9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday): I-81 northbound from the Biden Expressway to Drinker Street will be reduced to one lane for barrier installation.April 27 through May 1 (9 p.m. to 6 a.m.): I-81 northbound will be limited to two lanes between the Biden Expressway and the I-84 east/I-81 north junction.April 28 through April 30 (7 a.m. to 6 p.m.): I-81 southbound from the I-84/I-81 junction to the Biden Expressway will see restrictions for inlet repairs.April 27 through April 28 (7 a.m. to 6 p.m.): Rolling shoulder closures will take place on I-81 southbound between the I-84/I-81 junction and the Biden Expressway for signage work.April 30 (7 a.m. to 4 p.m.): I-81 northbound from Moosic to the Biden Expressway will have restrictions for pothole repairs.Luzerne CountyApril 27 through April 30 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.): Lane restrictions between Exit 141 (Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce Beltway) and Exit 143 (Route 924) for utility work.April 28 through April 30 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.): I-81 northbound between the Route 309/Wilkes-Barre exit and Moosic will see work for pothole patching and crack sealing. April 27 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.): I-81 southbound from Highland Park Boulevard to Blackman Street will have restrictions for similar repairs.April 28 through May 1 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.): I-81 northbound from the Mountaintop exit to Avoca will also undergo patching and sealing work.

PennDOT advises drivers to remain alert in work zones, expect delays, and allow extra time for travel.