TDOT halting construction to help ease holiday traffic
JACKSON, Tenn. — AAA predicts there will be more than two million Tennesseans hitting the road this holiday season, and the Tennessee Department of Transportation is doing what it can to keep traffic moving.
Nichole Lawrence with TDOT said they are stopping all holiday construction on major highways for the holiday. No temporary lane closures will be allowed for construction on Tennessee roadways beginning at noon Wednesday through 9 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 4.
“Between now and New Year’s they are expecting nearly two million Tennesseans on the road, so I would just suggest giving yourselves plenty of time and buckle up and be safe,” Lawrence said.
Before you hit the roads, one of the things Lawrence says you can do is check out their SmartWays website where you can get updates on traffic cameras and road conditions.
“If you see red, it’s majorly congested. Orange is kind of a moderate congestion, and then if you don’t see anything and it’s green, it’s really clear,” Lawrence said. “So just knowing that will give you ample ability to help you make that decision on when you need to leave.”
The threat of severe weather on Wednesday isn’t stopping some drivers, such as Dennis Goldsby, from traveling.
“Not likely. It would have to get really bad, but not not planning on it. We have to get back,” he said.
“If you can’t see the white line, don’t travel across that roadway,” Lawrence said. “‘Turn around, don’t drown’ is kind of our slogan during heavy rain periods.”
TDOT also encourages drivers to wear their seat belts, reduce your speed, avoid distractions and don’t drink and drive.
