NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Road construction won’t slow motorists down as they travel Tennessee’s highways this Memorial Day weekend.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes beginning at noon on Friday, May 22 through 6 a.m. on Tuesday, May 26. This will provide maximum roadway capacity for motorists expected to travel in the state this Memorial Day weekend.
“Over 600-thousand drivers are predicted to travel on Tennessee’s roadways this Memorial Day weekend,” TDOT Commissioner John Schroer said.
Motorists may still encounter some lane closures or restrictions while traveling through long term construction projects. Drivers should be aware that reduced speed limits will be in effect in work zones. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of up to $500, plus court fees and possible increased insurance premiums.
Law enforcement will also be on the lookout for seat belt violations as part of the Click It or Ticket campaign.
AAA estimates 37.2 million people will travel more than 50 miles this Memorial Day holiday, a 4.7% increase over last year’s numbers. This marks the highest travel volume for the holiday in 10 years and includes a 5.3% increase in car travel over last Memorial Day. In Tennessee, AAA predicts that 668,866 will travel by automobile and 55,177 by air.