The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has announced a halt on all interstate construction work that could disrupt traffic flow during the Easter weekend, in order to accommodate the expected surge in holiday travel. Starting from 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 28, and extending until 6:00 a.m. on Monday, April 1, no construction work involving lane closures will take place across the state’s interstate highways.
This initiative is part of TDOT’s efforts to ensure that travelers can move as smoothly and safely as possible during the holiday period. Although major construction will be paused, drivers may still come across certain long-term lane closures that are part of ongoing projects. Additionally, construction zones might still have workers present, and the reduced speed limits typically found in these areas will remain in effect. TDOT emphasizes the importance of adhering to these reduced speeds for the safety of both travelers and workers, noting that the layout of work zones often requires slower speeds for safe navigation.
The decision comes in the wake of 27 reported incidents this year involving vehicles colliding with TDOT equipment or vehicles, highlighting the risks associated with highway construction zones. These incidents include collisions with TDOT HELP Trucks, attenuators, various other equipment like dump trucks and message boards, as well as passenger vehicles.
TDOT encourages motorists to plan their travel routes in advance using the TDOT SmartWay system, utilize hands-free devices for their phones, and exercise caution by moving over and slowing down when encountering any vehicle with flashing lights on the road. These steps are crucial for ensuring the safety of everyone on the road, especially in construction areas. Further information and travel advisements can be found on TDOT’s official website and the mentioned resources.
Source: Read Original Release
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