Julie A. Oaks
TDOT, Public Information Officer
 Office: 615.741.2331
Mobile: 615.533.7105
Fax: 615.741.9093

Road Construction Won’t Slow Labor Day Travelers in Tennessee
TDOT Announces No Lane Closures During Holiday Travel Period

Nashville, Tenn.  – Holiday travelers will have a smooth commute through Tennessee this Labor Day travel period.  Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Commissioner Gerald Nicely announced today that there will be no construction related lane closure activity on Tennessee’s interstate and state highways in anticipation of increased holiday travel.
 
Crews will stop all lane closure activity beginning at noon Friday, August 29 through 6:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 2.  This will provide maximum roadway capacity for motorists traveling during the busy Labor Day holiday.

“The Labor Day holiday is traditionally one of the busiest travel periods on Tennessee roadways, as people mark the end of summer,” said Nicely. “Even though the number of travelers on the road is expected to be slightly lower than last year, we want to ensure that road construction delays do not get in the way of an enjoyable holiday period.”
 
While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers will still be working in many construction zones.  Drivers should obey all posted speed limits, particularly in construction areas.  Slower speeds are necessary in work zones due to the temporary layout of the roadway and will be enforced.  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. 

“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.”

The summer travel season is expected to close with fewer travelers during the Labor Day weekend than during the same period in 2007.  AAA Auto Club South projects 622,000 Tennesseans will travel this Labor Day holiday, with 525,376 traveling by car and 96,621 traveling by air.  That’s a decline of 0.6% compared to last year’s numbers.