Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes beginning at midnight on Thursday, July 2 through 6 a.m. on Monday, July 6, to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
“We always anticipate heavier than normal traffic on Tennessee’s interstates and state routes during the July 4th holiday,” said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer. “We will be suspending lane closures for this holiday travel period to help travelers reach their destinations safely and without unnecessary delays.”
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.
"Drivers can expect increased law enforcement patrols surrounding the 4th of July weekend," said Governor's Highway Safety Office Director Kendell Poole. "If you've been celebrating with alcohol, don't make the decision to get behind the wheel. Each time you travel, remember that buckling up is your best defense in the event of a crash. We want everyone to arrive at their destinations safely."
According to AAA projections, 41.9 million Americans, that’s 0.7 percent more than last year, will travel 50 miles or more away from home this holiday weekend. Nearly 85 percent of them will drive. AAA estimates more than 844,000 Tennesseans will hit the roadways.