Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4th holiday.  The Tennessee Department of Transportation will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes beginning at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, June 29th through 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 5th to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.

“Over 831,000 motorists are expected to travel Tennessee’s interstates and state routes this July 4th holiday,” TDOT Commissioner John Schroer said. “To help motorists reach their destinations safely and without unnecessary delays, we are suspending lane closures during this holiday travel time.”

Motorists will still encounter some long term lane closures on construction projects.  While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on site in construction zones and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect.  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.

AAA projects a record breaking 46.9 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this Independence Day weekend, a 5% increase from last year. More than 927,000 Tennesseans will travel during the holiday, with over 831,000 driving to their destinations.

From your desktop or mobile device, get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 from any land-line or cellular phone for travel information, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TN511 for statewide travel.  As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for your destination.  Drivers should never tweet, text or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.