Starting Sunday night, Pittsburgh's drivers will need to prepare for a new set of detours. PennDOT District 11 has announced that lane closures on the Fort Duquesne Bridge will begin on May 12, due to necessary overnight inspection work. According to a PennDOT release, the southbound side will see restrictions from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. The inspection schedule is set through Thursday night, May 16, weather permitting.

The bridge, an essential artery in the heart of Pittsburgh, will experience these temporary shutdowns as crews from Gannett Fleming get down to work. Motorists are being urged to exercise caution and patience while driving through, as the nighttime restrictions will likely cause some traffic disruptions. "Motorists should be prepared for changing traffic patterns," PennDOT warns, reminding us that, Work zone safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Those looking to stay ahead of the game can utilize resources such as the 511PA website. This platform offers up-to-the-minute traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras. Available online or via a handy smartphone application, 511PA presents a valuable tool for any traveler looking to navigate the ever-changing landscape of Pittsburgh roads, especially during these restrictive nights.

In addition to its online presence, 511PA provides updates through iPhone and Android apps, and for those less tech-inclined, by dialing 5-1-1 directly. For commuters intent on beating the traffic, following regional X alerts on 511PA's interface might just be the ace up their sleeve. As PennDOT delves into the bridge's structural secrets, the city holds its breath, hoping for swift work and minimal disruption to its daily rhythms.