Road construction won’t slow traffic across Tennessee over the July 4th holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes beginning at noon on Tuesday through 6 a.m. on Friday to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
“There will be increased traffic on Tennessee’s interstates and state routes during the July 4th holiday period,” said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer.
“Suspending lane closures over this busy few days is one way to ensure that travelers don’t face construction-related delays as they travel across our state.”
Motorists will still encounter some long term lane closures on construction projects. While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on site in construction zones and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possible increased insurance premiums.
“If you and your family are traveling during this holiday period, please buckle up and observe the rules of the road so you’ll arrive safely at your destination,” said Governor’s Highway Safety Office Director Kendell Poole. “During this coming week drivers will notice an increased law enforcement presence on Tennessee’s roadways in an effort to ensure that everyone has a safe and happy 4th of July holiday.”
According to AAA projections, more than 42 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more away from home this holiday weekend. That figure is up 4.9% over 2011 and up 42% over 2009, which had the least amount of holiday travelers over the last decade. AAA estimates 753,824 Tennesseans will hit the roadways, while another 36,121 are expected to fly to their destinations. Auto travel will make up 84% of all holiday travelers across the U.S. this year.
Travelers are reminded to dial 511 from any land-line or cellular phone to access valuable information about travel conditions anytime, or log on to . TDOT is also on Twitter. For statewide traffic tweets follow TN511 or for regional traffic information follow Nashville511, Chattanooga511, Memphis511 and Knoxville511 . Smart phone users can use the new TDOT SmartWay Mobile website at http://m.tdot.tn.gov/SmartWay/ to access TDOT’s SmartWay cameras, messages displayed on overhead Dynamic Message Signs. Motorists are reminded to use all motorist information tools responsibly. Drivers should refrain from texting, tweeting or using a mobile phone while operating a vehicle. TDOT advises drivers to “Know before you go!” by checking traffic conditions before leaving for their destination.