RICHMOND — To make the most of the Labor Day weekend and remaining summer travel days, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) said it will be suspending most highway work zones and lifting most lane closures on interstates and other major roads.
The suspension of lane closures will begin at noon on Friday, Sept. 1, and continue until noon on Tuesday, Sept. 5.
While lane closures will be lifted in most locations, VDOT said motorists may still encounter semi-permanent work zones that remain in place during this period. Motorists should check VDOT’s Weekly Lane Closures and Travel Advisories for the latest travel alerts in their area and around the state.
VDOT’s online, interactive travel trends map shows peak congestion periods anticipated on Virginia interstates during the upcoming Labor Day holiday period. While it cannot precisely predict when congestion will occur this year, it can help motorists avoid travel when roads have historically been busiest, VDOT said.
VDOT also reminded motorists that its free mobile 511 app offers information about construction, traffic, incidents and congestion as well as access to traffic cameras, weather, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and more, and 511’s “speak ahead” option can alert drivers to incidents along their route.
Traffic information is also available at 511Virginia.org or by calling 511 from any phone.
VDOT also reminds citizens that it is everyone’s responsibility to drive responsibly, and everyone should do their part to make travel safer for all:
- If you plan to drink, have a designated driver.
- Don’t drive distracted, and speak up if someone else is doing so.
- Buckle up and ensure children and car seats are secured.
- Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Use your signals for lane changes and turns.
- Cars can heat dangerously fast on hot days: don’t leave children, elderly persons or pets in parked cars for any amount of time.
VDOT also reminds motorists that onn July 1, Virginia’s ‘Move Over’ law expanded to include all vehicles on the side of the road with flashing lights, flares or warning signs. Drivers must now move over or slow down when a vehicle is stopped on the side of the road.
For questions or to report hazardous road conditions, contact VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by visiting my.vdot.virginia.gov or calling 800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623).
