Rep. Kerry Benninghoff (R-Centre/Mifflin) is encouraging motorists to contact the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to report potholes and other problems with state roads.

“The freezing and defrosting that takes place during the winter often leads to the formation of potholes,” Benninghoff said.  “It’s just a fact of life with the climate where we live.  Fortunately, there is something local drivers can do about it – call the hotline.”

Based on the caller’s phone number, calls are directed to local PennDOT maintenance facilities where problems can receive the appropriate attention. Callers are encouraged to:

• Report the county and municipality where the problem is located.
• Report the state route number, which can be found on the small white-and-black signs posted along state roads, where the problem is located.
• Describe familiar landmarks nearby in order to help PennDOT crews locate the problem.

The toll-free maintenance hotline can be reached at 1-800-FIX-ROAD (1-800-349-7623).  In addition to reporting potholes, motorists may also report missing highway signs, shoulder drop-offs, roadway washouts and other potential hazards.

“A single phone call to the hotline could actually avert danger or save lives,” Benninghoff said.  “Missing road signs and dangerous conditions are a safety hazard.  We’re asking local drivers to be one of the first lines of defense against these hazards.”

With the very cold temperatures and consistent precipitation the state has seen in recent weeks, potholes are forming more quickly than usual on several area roadways.  Once notified, PennDOT will actively work to address pothole and other roadway concerns when the weather permits. 

Motorists can also log on to 511pa.com or call 511 from any phone to check traffic conditions on major roadways before traveling.

Rep. Kerry Benninghoff
171st District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(814) 355-1300
(717) 783-1918

KerryBenninghoff.com

Contact:  Dan Massing

House Public Relations

(717) 772-9845

www.pahousegop.com