Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday, Aug. 28 that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on state highways will be suspended from 6 a.m. Friday, Aug. 29, to 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 2, to ease travel throughout the Labor Day weekend.
“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,” 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,” according to a news release from Hochul’s office.
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.
Additionally, state police and local law enforcement agencies will participate in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement campaign, which runs through Monday, Sept. 1. The enforcement targets impaired and reckless driving through increased patrols and check points, the release stated.
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.”
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.”
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 release stated.
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, according to the release.