GDOT Ready for Thanksgiving Holiday

The Georgia Department of Transportation is preparing the state’s roadways for what is projected to be a busy holiday travel weekend.

Nearly 1.3 million Georgians are expected to hit the roads this Thanksgiving, according to projections from AAA.

That is a 3.5 percent increase from last year.

With so many expected on the roads, the Georgia DOT is suspending construction-related lane closures on Interstate highways, heavily traveled state routes, roadways near major shopping centers, and shopping districts this weekend.

Georgia DOT Spokesperson Katie Strickland said it went into effect at 5 a.m. today and lasts through 10 p.m. Sunday.

“All of those barrels will still be there, but we are not going to be in the roadway,” said Strickland. “We are going to be leeting people travel. We hope that this is going to relieve some of the congestion and this is really going to help us make sure that people are getting to and from shopping malls and to and from families’ homes safely.”

Strickland said that even though construction-related lane closures are restricted, drivers need to watch out when driving and avoid distracted driving behaviors.

“If there is any kind of emergency incident or emergency repair work that needs to be done, there will be some necessary lane closures that are still ongoing,” said Strickland. “We just really advise people to drive alert and arrive alive this holiday season. It is important that you keep two hands on the wheel, two eyes on the road. No texting and driving. Please buckle up for safety and just enjoy your holiday time with your family.”

Also, the DOT said safety concerns may require some long-term lane closures to remain in place and crews may still work in proximity to highways.

Meanwhile, DOT officials urged drivers to call 511 for up-to-date travel information on Georgia’s interstates and state routes.

Strickland said people can also download 511 for their mobile device or check it on the web.

“The 511 app and 511 website are going to be the best way to see local incidents and major incidents and you can plan ahead,” said Strickland. “You can look on 511 and you can see where the major congestion is, avoid those areas, and plan your route before you get behind the wheel.”

The website is www.511ga.org.

511 is a free service in Georgia.