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NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will halt all lane closure activity on interstates and state highways for the busy Labor Day holiday travel period.
Construction crews will stop all lane closure activity beginning at noon on Friday, August 29, through 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 2.
“AAA predicts Friday and Monday to be the busiest travel times during the Labor Day holiday weekend,” said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer. “We want to ensure that the thousands of travelers using Tennessee’s roadways during this period arrive at their destinations quickly and safely without being impeded by road construction delays.”
While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers will still be on site in many construction zones, and drivers are urged to obey posted speed limits. Drivers convicted of speeding in work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possible increased insurance premiums.
“Drivers can expect to see an increased number of law enforcement personnel on the roads this Labor Day weekend,” said Governor’s Highway Safety Office Director Kendell Poole. “We want everyone to have a safe holiday, so remember to buckle up, drive the speed limit and don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve had too much to drink or are impaired in any way.”
AAA will offer its Tow to Go program for members and non-members Aug. 29 through September 1. AAA will pick up callers and transport individuals and vehicles home or somewhere safe within 10 miles. Call (855) 2-TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246 for a safe ride.
Nationwide travel is expected to see a 1.4 percent increase from last year’s numbers.
For more information on TDOT construction project activity, visit the TDOT SmartWay web site at www.tn.gov/tdot/tdotsmartway/. Travelers can also dial 511 from any land-line or cellular phone for travel information or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TN511 for statewide travel information or www.twitter.com/Nashville511 for traffic information in the Nashville area.