GARDINER — Drivers traveling through Gardiner on the Maine Turnpike today need to be aware of a lane closure.

Maine Turnpike Authority officials said the southbound lane of the Gardiner interchange bridge at mile marker 102 on the pike will be closed until 5 p.m. today.

The speed limit has been reduced to 50 mph until the lane reopens.

Officials did not indicate when the work would be finished and whether the lane would have to be closed again for the remainder of the week.

Not that the Kennebec Commuter condones playing hooky from work, but if you have the chance to get out of the office early to enjoy this beautiful weather, take it!

No accidents have been reported this afternoon in the greater Augusta area or on the Turnpike near the construction work.