Lane Closures Suspended for Holiday Weekend

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6:00 a.m. on Friday, August 29, to 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 2, to ease travel throughout Labor Day weekend. 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.

“New Yorkers will be out this Labor Day weekend enjoying everything our state has to offer, and we want everyone to have a safe and memorable holiday weekend,” Governor Hochul said. “I encourage all New Yorkers to plan their trip ahead of time, drive sober, stay alert, obey the speed limit and adhere to the Move Over law while on the road.”

Drivers should be aware some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. 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 must follow the State’s Move Over Law, which was expanded in March 2024 to require drivers to slow down and move over for all vehicles stopped along the roadway. The Thruway Authority and New York State Department of Transportation urge motorists to stay alert while driving, slow down and move over when they see a vehicle on the side of the road. The lives of motorists, roadway workers and emergency personnel depend on it.

Additionally, New York State Police and local law enforcement are participating in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign, which runs through Monday, September 1. The enforcement targets impaired and reckless driving through increased patrols and check points.

New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “The Labor Day holiday is a busy weekend for travel, and we want motorists to arrive at their destinations safely and with fewer delays. We urge motorists to make safety a priority, remain alert, slow down and safely move over for any vehicle on the side of the road. We thank our partners at New York State Police Troop T for patrolling the Thruway and keeping motorists safe.”

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, and I encourage all New Yorkers to please drive responsibly, plan your travel ahead of time, and show courtesy to fellow drivers so that everyone can enjoy the weekend safely. If you encounter a stopped vehicle, please slow down and safely move over a lane. And don’t forget, the 511NY app is a great resource for checking out road and traffic conditions before you start traveling. Let’s all follow the rules of the road, pay attention while driving and enjoy a great Labor Day weekend with family and friends.”

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Labor Day weekend reflects the hard work and achievements of American workers, and with that comes increased travel and celebration throughout New York state. While road construction will be suspended, motorists should still drive with caution through work zones, obey posted speed limits and be mindful of emergency and maintenance vehicles. If plans include alcohol, arrange for a safe ride home. Together, we can all safely enjoy the last days of summer.”

New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “We know that many people will be hitting New York’s roads to celebrate the unofficial end of summer with family and friends, but it is up to all of us to make sure those roads are safe. If you are going to drink alcohol or consume cannabis, make sure you have a plan to get home safely. Follow the rules of the road, watch your speed and be aware of what is happening in front of and around you.”

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.

The Thruway Authority reminds motorists that every service area located on the Thruway from the lower Hudson Valley to the Pennsylvania State line is now open as part of the $450 million redevelopment of 27 service areas, with the exception of one service area on I-87 southbound which is closed and under construction. Fuel services are 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, which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app also provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert emails, which provide the latest conditions along the Thruway.

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

Travelers can also 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 more than 2,000 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.

The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee urges drivers to use the  STOP-DWI Have a Plan app to help them get home safely. The free app 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.