BUFFALO, N.Y. — New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that state is suspending temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects to ease travel during the holiday weekend.
The temporary lane closures will be suspended from 6 a.m. Friday, May 26 to 6 a.m. Tuesday, May 30.
"Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of the summer season, and New Yorkers across the state will be hitting the road to enjoy time with friends and family," Governor Hochul said in a press release. "We are suspending construction on state roads to help ease traffic and ensure that everyone is able to reach their destination safely and with minimal delays. I urge everyone traveling this weekend to do their part by planning ahead and driving responsibly."
Officials say motorists should be aware that some work may be happening behind permanent concrete barriers for emergency repairs.
Memorial Day weekend kicks off the summer travel season across the state and country.
Thruway Authority Interim Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, "Memorial Day weekend is typically a very busy time on the road, and suspending construction will help minimize traffic congestion and delays. Although construction work is on hold, emergency and roadside workers will still be out assisting travelers. It's critical motorists remain alert, slow down and Move Over when they see emergency vehicles on the side of the road. Driving responsibly can save lives."
Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and Governor's Traffic Safety Committee Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder said, "With warmer weather, a lot of us are excited to get out on the open road to explore new summer travel destinations. With more cars comes more risk of drivers not paying full attention to the road and greater chance of crashes. It is so important for everyone to do their part to watch out for their fellow travelers along the way to make sure everyone gets where they are headed safely and securely."
The New York State Thruway Authority also reminds those traveling the highways in the state that 10 service areas are closed and under construction as part of a modernization project Fuel stations are still open.
For more information: https://www.thruway.ny.gov/
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