Construction-related lane closures for Labor Day weekend

Motorists urged to slow down, move over for roadside emergency and maintenance vehicles

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York state highways will be suspended from 6 a.m. Friday, Sept. 1, to 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 5, to ease travel throughout Labor Day weekend.

Her team said, “Suspension of roadside construction during a weekend of increased traffic also helps protect the safety of highway workers, including those in organized labor, during a holiday that honors the ideals of the labor movement.”

Hochul said, “From our scenic trails to our world-class state parks, New York is home to some of the best places to celebrate Labor Day weekend. We want to make sure that travelers get to their destinations safely and with minimal interruptions, so I encourage all New Yorkers to plan their trip ahead of time and be safe on the roadways to ensure everyone can celebrate the holiday with family and friends.”

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 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.

Motorists should be aware that some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

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.

Hochul’s team said, “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 10 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.

Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “With the summer season winding down and schools across the state getting in gear, New Yorkers will be hitting the roads this weekend for one last gasp of summer. Less construction will help minimize congestion and also keep our roadside workers out of harm’s way during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. Drivers should remain alert, put down their phones, and buckle up. I urge all motorists to follow the rules of the road and always be ready to move over for emergency vehicles.”

Thruway Authority Interim Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “This Labor Day weekend, we’re suspending construction activities to help travelers reach their destinations with fewer delays. Motorists should still be alert for emergency and thruway personnel on the roadway assisting drivers – remember to slow down and move over when you see emergency lights. We want everyone on the road to make safety a priority and enjoy the holiday weekend.”

Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “So many New Yorkers enjoy one last summer road trip on Labor Day weekend so I urge all road users – drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians – to be careful and watch out for each other. Drivers should, of course, avoid alcohol or other forms of impairment and make an alternate plan to get home or to their hotel if they will be drinking. Be safe and enjoy the holiday.”

New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli said, “Labor Day weekend is a time of celebration and recognition of the hard-working Americans who have contributed to the success of our country. During the holiday weekend, increased travel is to be expected throughout New York state. Although construction-related roadwork will be suspended, everyone should still drive with caution through work zones, obey the posted speed limit and be mindful of emergency and maintenance vehicles. Together, we can all ensure that everyone has a fun and safe holiday weekend.”

Follow the Thruway Authority on Twitter @NYSThruway and on Facebook at New York State Thruway Authority.

Travelers can check NYSDOT's 511NY before traveling by calling 5-1-1, visiting the 511 website, or downloading the free 511NY mobile app on iTunes or Google Play. The free service allows users to check road conditions, view 2,219 traffic cameras, and link to air and transit information. The app features “Drive mode,” which provides audible alerts along a chosen route while a user is driving, warning them about incidents and construction.

Follow New York state DOT on Twitter @NYSDOT and on Facebook at New York State Department of Transportation.

The DMV urges drivers to use the “Have a Plan” app to help find a safe way home from a celebration where they may be drinking. The free app, from the GTSC and the NYS STOP-DWI Foundation, allows users to designate a driver, call a cab or ride share, and to review the consequences of impaired driving. Users can even use the app to report a drunk or drugged driver. The app is available for Apple, Android and Windows smart phones.

Follow DMV on Twitter @NYSDMV or on Facebook at New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.