A press release out of Atlanta by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is good news for those hitting the road this holiday weekend.
From noon on Thursday, July 2 until 10 p.m. Sunday, July 5, GDOT is suspending construction-related lane closures on interstate highways and limiting lane closures on state routes that directly serve major tourist and recreation centers.
“As people head to holiday festivities or vacation destinations on this long weekend, we expect heavier than normal traffic,” said Georgia DOT State Construction Engineer John Hancock. “By restricting lane closures, we hope drivers will encounter fewer delays and less stress.”
GDOT reminds travelers that Georgia Welcome Centers are currently closed, but the welcome center and rest area restrooms are open and deep cleaned regularly. People are asked to continue to be aware of social distancing and public health guidelines when making use of welcome centers and rest areas.
The press release also, “urges drivers to Drive Alert Arrive Alive – to always buckle up, stay off the phone and focus on driving.
In the event of a crash or breakdown, GDOT advises motorists to never get out of the car on a freeway, unless your life is in imminent danger. If possible, pull off the road, turn on your hazard lights and stay seat-belted in the vehicle with the doors locked.
For HERO assistance in metro Atlanta or CHAMP service on highways in other regions of Georgia call 511, a free phone service sponsored by State Farm that provides real-time statewide information on Georgia’s interstates and state routes, such as traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, and delays due to inclement weather. Once callers are connected to 511, pressing 9 will transfer them to an operator to request assistance or report incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When placing these calls, it is important to provide current location, nearest exit number and the interstate the motorist is traveling. In addition, provide the make and model of the vehicle. More information is available at www.511ga.org.”
