Temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6 a.m. on Saturday, July 1 to 6 a.m. on Wednesday, July 5, to ease travel throughout the July 4th holiday weekend.
The construction suspension aligns with New York State’s Drivers First Initiative, which prioritizes the convenience of motorists to minimize traffic congestion and travel delays due to road and bridge work. Motorists should be aware that some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.
AAA predicts record-breaking traffic volumes over the holiday weekend, with 43.2 million people driving to their destinations, an increase of 2.4 percent over 2022 and 4 percent higher than 2019.
Motorists should follow the state’s Move Over Law, which requires motorists to slow down and safely move over for law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, tow trucks, and construction or maintenance vehicles that are stopped along 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 effort to reduce distracted driving. All text stops will remain open, providing locations where drivers can safely and conveniently use their phones and other mobile devices for calling, texting, navigating and accessing mobile apps. Texting while driving is especially dangerous, as it requires motorists to take their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel and mind off driving.
The Thruway Authority reminds motorists that seven service areas are closed and under construction as part of the $450 million private investment and modernization project. Fuel services remain open at all locations. Motorists can view the service areas and plan their stops on the Thruway Authority’s website and on the free mobile app.
