The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has announced that motorists will not face road construction delays as they travel across the state during Memorial Day weekend. To facilitate smoother travel, TDOT will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes starting at noon on Friday, May 24, and continuing through 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28, 2024.
Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley stated, “We want to do our part to help everyone have an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend and keep traffic flowing as smoothly and efficiently as possible.” Eley also reminded drivers of the legal requirement to move over and slow down for first responders and emergency vehicles, including TDOT HELP trucks, which will be on patrol during the holiday weekend.
While TDOT is suspending lane closures, motorists may still encounter some lane restrictions in long-term construction areas. Additionally, reduced speed limits will remain in effect in work zones. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face fines of up to $500, plus court fees and potentially higher insurance premiums.
AAA forecasts a record number of 926,251 Tennesseans will travel for Memorial Day, with 783,990 of them driving to their destinations.
Travelers can access the latest construction activity updates and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Additionally, travel information is available by calling 511. TDOT encourages drivers to check travel conditions before departing and to use motorist information tools responsibly. Drivers are reminded to avoid tweeting, texting, or talking on a cell phone while driving.
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TDCI Honors Tennessee Officers During Police Week
The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI), along with the Tennessee Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (POST) and the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy (TLETA), is honoring Tennessee law enforcement officers during National Police Week, which occurs from May 12 to May 18, 2024. This week, established in 1962, recognizes officers who have died in the line of duty. TDCI Commissioner Carter Lawrence highlighted the importance of supporting law enforcement, a priority of Governor Lee’s administration. Since its founding in 1963, TLETA has trained over 23,800 officers and will be part of the new Multi-Agency Law Enforcement Training Academy (MALETA) campus. William Kain, TLETA Director and POST Executive Secretary, emphasized the dangers faced by officers and honored the 742 Tennesseans who have died in service.