NASHVILLE – Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) announced in a Monday press release that it will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstate and state routes from noon on Thursday, July 2, through 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 6, to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
AAA predicts most travelers will drive to their destinations this year, with 1.4 million Tennesseans hitting the road.
“With so many people driving on and around the Fourth of July, we want to do all we can to ensure they reach their destinations safely and without delays,” said TDOT Commissioner Will Reid, P.E. “We are suspending lane closures during this busy holiday travel time. Be mindful that our HELP Trucks will be on patrol in urban and rural areas and drivers must obey the law by moving over and slowing down for all emergency vehicles on the side of the road.”
The release stated that 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 work zones, and reduced speed limits will remain in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possibly increased insurance premiums.
Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. During his nearly 20-year career, Bruce has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications. He and his wife, Dana, who is also a journalist, are based in Carrollton, Georgia.
