Governor Kathy Hochul announced the suspension of temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State Thruways from 6 a.m. Friday, May 26 to 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 30 to ease the entire Travel over the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
“Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer as New Yorkers across the state hit the roads to spend time with friends and family,” Governor Hochul said. “We are suspending state road construction to ease traffic and ensure everyone gets to their destinations safely with minimal delays. I urge everyone traveling this weekend to do their part by planning ahead and driving responsibly.”
Motorists should be aware that some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or make emergency repairs. The construction pause is in line with New York State’s “Drivers First” initiative, which prioritizes motorist convenience to minimize traffic congestion and travel delays caused by road and bridge work.
AAA level A forecast of 42.3 million people will travel this Memorial Day weekend, a 7 percent increase over 2022. For car travel alone, AAA forecasts growth of 6% over a year ago, to more than 2 million drivers, for a total of 37.1 million.
Motorists should abide by the state’s Give Way law, which requires motorists to slow down and safely yield to law enforcement vehicles, fire engines, ambulances, tow trucks and construction or maintenance vehicles that are parked on roads across the state.
Text stops, including park-and-ride facilities, rest stops, service bays, and parking areas along interstate highways, support the state’s efforts to reduce distracted driving. All messaging sites will remain open, allowing drivers to safely and easily use cellphones and other mobile devices to make calls, text, navigate and access mobile applications. Texting while driving is especially dangerous because it requires motorists to take their eyes off the road, their hands off the wheel, and their attention away from driving.
The Highway Authority reminds motorists that 10 service areas are closed and under construction as part of $450 million in private investment and modernization project. Fuel service remains open at all locations.Motorists can view service areas and plan their stops at the Highway Authority website and free Mobile Applications.
Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Travel, especially over the busy holiday weekend, can be difficult and stressful, so our goal at the New York State Department of Transportation is to make it as easy and safe as possible. By suspending construction activity, Governor Hochul is showing her commitment For safety and convenience, this will allow travelers to reach their destinations with as little disruption as possible. I urge all motorists to buckle up, put down their phones and pay attention – so everyone can reach their respective destinations safely.”
Interim Executive Director of the Highway Administration, Frank G. Hoare, said, “Memorial Day weekend is typically a very busy time on the roads, and the suspension of construction will help minimize traffic congestion and delays. Despite the suspension of construction work, emergency responders and roadside crews will still be out to assist travelers. It is important that motorists remain vigilant and “slow” out of the vehicle and move over when they see an emergency vehicle on the side of the road. Driving responsibly saves lives. ”
Mark JF Schroeder, Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles and Chairman of the Governor’s Transportation Safety Committee, said, “As the weather warms up, many of us are excited to hit the open road and explore new summer destinations. With more cars, there is a greater risk of driver inattention, There is also an increased likelihood of crashes. It is very important that everyone does their part and is mindful of their fellow travelers on the road to ensure everyone gets to their destinations safely and securely.”
New York State Police Commissioner Steven A. Nigrelli said, “Highways are among the most dangerous work environments for those who respond to emergencies and maintain our roads. Not only are there many celebrations over Memorial Day weekend, but travel across New York State is up. Although the roads Construction will be suspended, but motorists should continue to follow the rules of the road. Motorists are reminded to drive carefully in work zones, obey posted speed limits, be aware of emergencies and repair vehicles, and not drive damaged. Together we can work safely Celebrate this little holiday weekend.”
Highway Authority encourages motorists to download its Mobile Applications, available as a free download on iPhone and Android devices. The app gives drivers direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the road.Drivers can also apply transmission alert Emails providing updates along the highway.
Follow Highway Authority on Twitter @NYSThruway on Facebook New York State Thruway Authority.
Travelers can view NYSDOT’s 511 New York Dial 5-1-1, visit the 511 website or download the free 511NY mobile app before you travel itunes or google play. This free service allows users to check traffic conditions, view 2219 traffic cameras and link to aviation and traffic information. The app features a driving mode that provides audible alerts to users along selected routes while driving, warning them about accidents and construction.
Follow New York State DOT on Twitter @NYSDOT on Facebook New York State Department of Transportation.
DMV urges drivers to use have a planning app Help them find their way home safely from the festivities where they may be drinking. The free app from the Governor’s Transportation Safety Council and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation allows users to nominate a driver, hail a cab or carpool, and review the consequences of bad driving. Users can even use the app to report drunk or drugged drivers. The app is available for Apple, Android and Windows smartphones.
Follow DMV on Twitter @NYSDMV on Facebook New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.
