Suspension of lane closures from 6 a.m. July 1 to 6 a.m. July 5
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that lanes on New York State Thruway that are temporarily closed for road and bridge construction projects will be suspended from 6 a.m. Saturday, July 1 through 6 a.m. Wednesday, July 5, To ease travel during the 4th of July holiday weekend.
“The 4th of July holiday weekend is expected to be another busy time for travel and we want to make sure people get to their destinations with minimal delays.” Governor Hocher said. “I encourage everyone who travels over the holiday weekend to plan ahead, drive responsibly, and have a safe and happy Independence Day.”
This construction pause is in line with New York State’s Drivers First Initiative, which prioritizes motorist convenience to minimize traffic congestion and travel delays due to road and bridge construction. Motorists should be aware that some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or make emergency repairs.
AAA predict Holiday weekend traffic hit a record high, with 43.2 million people driving to their destinations, a 2.4% increase over 2022 and a 4% increase over 2019.
Motorists are expected to obey 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 parked on roads across the state.
Text Stops, including park-and-ride facilities, rest stops, service areas and parking areas along state highways, support the state’s efforts to reduce distracted driving. All text sites will remain open to provide drivers with a safe and convenient location to call, text, navigate and access mobile apps using cell phones and other mobile devices. Texting while driving is especially dangerous because it requires motorists to take their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel and distracts them.
The Highway Authority reminds motorists that seven service areas are closed and under construction as part of $450 million in private investment and modernization project. Fuel service at all locations remains open.Motorists can check service areas and plan stops on the Highway Authority’s website website and in the free Mobile Applications.
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “The Fourth of July holiday has been one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. While safety is always the Department of Transportation’s top priority, the convenience and ease of travel is also extremely important. While construction activity is suspended, Governor Hochul is helping to Both goals are achieved by making roads safer for drivers and maintainers, and by helping travelers reach their destinations with as little disruption as possible. Now, everyone on the road should do their part: the Department of Fasten your seat belts, slow down and yield. Roadside emergency and repair vehicles, put your phones down and focus—we hope everyone has a safe and happy National Day.”
Mark JF Schroeder, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and Chairman of the Governor’s Transportation Safety Committee, said, “Independence Day is a wonderful time to celebrate our nation’s founding with friends and family, and we ask all New Yorkers to do so safely. If you plan to drink, please make a ride plan or stay put. Remember, everyone Stay put.” During busy travel periods, secure your vehicle properly, be patient and stay within the speed limit. It doesn’t matter how fast you get to your destination, what matters is safety. ”
New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli said, “The Fourth of July is a day to celebrate our nation’s independence and with that comes increased traffic on our roads. With the road construction season in full swing, state police are asking all drivers to be extra careful, especially in work zones .Even if roadwork is suspended, we urge all motorists to slow down and give way to allow roadside emergency and maintenance vehicles to pass. Police will be out looking for impaired, distracted and reckless driving who are putting others at risk By.”
Interim Executive Director of the Highway Administration, Frank G. Hoare, said, “With thousands of motorists traveling on the highway this weekend over Independence Day, the suspension of construction will help ease delays. With record numbers of drivers expected on the roads, we encourage motorists to plan ahead , allow for extra travel time and utilize text messaging stations and service areas on highways as needed. Passengers should also note that highway crews, emergency responders, and New York State Police will be on the road to assist motorists, so when watching When you come to the flashing lights on the side of the freeway, please slow down and yield. On the road. Drive safely and responsibly and we wish you all a very Happy 4th of July Weekend.”
Highway Authority encourages motorists to download its Mobile Applications, available as a free download on iPhone and Android devices. The app gives motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the road.Drivers can also sign up traffic alert Email, providing updates on conditions along the highway.
Follow Highway Authority on Twitter @NYSThruway and on Facebook New York State Thruway Authority.
Travelers can view NYSDOT’s 511 New York Before traveling, call 5-1-1, visit the 511 website or download the free 511NY mobile app itunes or google play. The free service allows users to check traffic conditions, view 2,219 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 NYS DOT on Twitter @New York State Department of Transportation and on Facebook New York State Department of Transportation.
DMV urges drivers to use have a planning app Help them find their way home safely during the festivities where they may drink. A free app from the Governor’s Transportation Safety Committee and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation allows users to nominate a driver, hail a cab or share a ride, and review the consequences of impaired 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 and on Facebook New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.
