IDOT suspends non-emergency roadwork to improve traffic flow for Labor Day weekend

Agency details lane closures to aid motorists' travel plans

[August 28, 2013]  SPRINGFIELD -- With thousands of motorists expected to travel on state roadways over the Labor Day weekend, the Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that non-emergency roadwork will be suspended where possible to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow. IDOT is also providing advance notice of lane closures that will be in place for the holiday weekend to aid motorists' travel plans and boost safety.

"Labor Day weekend is ... traditionally the last weekend of summer travel for motorists, and we want to help ensure it's a safe one," said Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider. "All non-emergency roadwork, wherever possible, will be suspended during the Labor Day weekend to allow Illinois families and visitors traveling on our roadways a smooth ride with reduced roadway congestion and improved safety."

Starting at 3 p.m. Friday, IDOT will suspend all non-emergency roadwork for the holiday weekend and open up all lanes where possible through midnight Monday. Some construction zones will have lane closures in effect, depending on the projects.

IDOT is urging motorists to slow down, obey posted speed limits and drive with caution through work zones. Holiday travelers are reminded that work zone speed limits are still in effect wherever they are posted, even where no construction workers are present.

For more information on road closures, visit http://www.dot.il.gov/tpublic.html#road.

For the current roadwork list released by IDOT, click here.

[Text from Illinois Department of Transportation file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]