TDOT halts highway work for holidays

Dec. 22– The Tennessee Department of Transportation is halting all lane closure activity on interstates and state highways during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays in anticipation of higher traffic volumes across the state.

No temporary lane closures will be allowed for construction on Tennessee roadways from 8 a.m. Friday through 8 a.m. Monday, Jan. 3.

"We want to ensure that motorists traveling in Tennessee arrive at their destinations safely and with as little disruption as possible," said TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely.

Except for a few long-term closures which must remain in place for safety, all construction related closures will be suspended.

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 increased law enforcement on the roads throughout the holiday with a particular focus on stopping drivers who are impaired," said Governor’s Highway Safety Office Director Kendell Poole.

AAA predicts holiday travel will increase nearly 4 percent in Tennessee this year, with more than 2 million expected to travel by automobile in the volunteer state between the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

Across the U.S. 85.7 million people are expected to drive to their year-end holiday destinations.

For up-to-date travel information, motorists may call 511 from any land line or cellular phone, or visit www.TN511.com.

TDOT is also on Twitter.

For statewide travel tweets follow www.twitter.com/TN511.