The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) has announced plans to suspend all interstate and four-lane highway construction during peak Christmas and New Year’s travel times.
According to MDOT, the closures will provide maximum travel capacity and minimal construction delays for holiday travelers as lane closures are anticipated to stop on December 24 and resume on January 2.
“Although no highway construction work will occur across the state, motorists should be aware that some lane closures will remain in place,” Brad White, MDOT Executive Director said. “These lane closures are there to protect motorists, and MDOT urges drivers to always treat these areas as active work zones, even though workers may not be present.”
MDOT released the following tips for safe driving during the holiday season:
- Plan ahead. The MDOT Traffic mobile app shows real-time road conditions along your travel route.
- Get plenty of rest before driving. Remember to plan frequent stops if traveling long distances.
- Buckle up. Seat belt use is one of the easiest and most effective ways to save lives and reduce injuries from a possible crash.
- Always use caution in work zones. Maintenance workers also want to make it home safely to their families for the holidays.
- Watch out for wildlife. Cooler temperatures mean deer and other wildlife are more active near highways. Use extra caution if traveling during dusk and dawn.
- Do not drive impaired. If you do plan to drink, make sure you have a designated driver.
