Knoxville, TN (WOKI) — Tennessee drivers heading out for the Independence Day holiday should see fewer delays on the road this year. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) announced it will suspend construction-related lane closures statewide to accommodate the expected surge in travel.
Lane closures on interstates and state routes will be halted beginning at noon on Thursday, July 2, and will remain lifted until 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 6. The move is designed to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
AAA estimates approximately 1.4 million Tennesseans will travel by car during the July 4 holiday period, making it one of the busiest travel weekends of the summer.
“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.”
While construction activity will pause, drivers should still be alert. Some long-term lane restrictions may remain in place, and crews could still be present in work zones. Reduced speed limits will continue to be enforced in those areas.
Officials warn that penalties for speeding in active work zones are significant. Drivers caught violating speed limits where workers are present face fines ranging from $250 to $500, along with court costs and potential increases in insurance rates.
TDOT urges travelers to plan ahead and check road conditions before heading out. Real-time traffic updates and live camera feeds are available at TDOT’s SmartWay website, and statewide travel information can be accessed by dialing 511.
