Construction-Related Lane Closures for Labor Day 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, September 4, to 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, to ease traffic 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.

“It’s been a historic and memorable summer in New York, and the momentum continues this Labor Day weekend, with thousands of travelers expected across the state,” Governor Hochul said. “We want everyone to have a safe holiday weekend, and I encourage travelers to plan ahead, drive sober and stay alert. Have a happy Labor Day weekend.”

Drivers should be aware that 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.

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 7. The enforcement targets impaired and reckless driving through increased patrols and checkpoints.

New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “Safety is the Thruway Authority’s top priority, and it should be the top priority for motorists as well. Our employees and emergency responders will still be on the roads over the holiday weekend assisting motorists, and travelers should slow down and move over for all vehicles on the side of the road. Motorists should plan ahead, remain alert and make safe decisions behind the wheel. We thank our partners at New York State Police Troop T for their dedication to keeping motorists safe.”

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “As we head into Labor Day weekend and the start of school, this is a good time to remind all drivers of their safety responsibilities — please drive sober and stay alert, obey posted speed limits, put your phones down, and pay attention to actually driving. As New Yorkers head out to enjoy the long weekend, the State Department of Transportation will be suspending all non-emergency construction activities to ensure the safe flow of traffic, so let’s each of us do our part to help everyone reach their destination safely.”

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Highways are one of the most dangerous work environments encountered by those who respond to emergencies and maintain our roadways. While road construction will be suspended during Labor Day weekend, motorists should take caution through work zones, obey posted speed limits, drive sober and be mindful of emergency and maintenance vehicles. Together, we can make a joint effort to ensure everyone has a safe holiday weekend.”

New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Acting Commissioner Christian Jackstadt said, “Labor Day weekend is one of the busiest periods on our roadways, as many will be traveling to celebrate the end of summer with friends and family. Highway safety is up to all of us. Please, if you are going to be drinking alcohol or using drugs, have a plan to get home safely. If not, please still follow the rules of the road: do not speed, pay attention at all times and avoid distractions. If we all do our part, it can be a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.”

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. 

All 27 service areas located on the New York State Thruway are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Motorists can view the service areas and plan their stops on the Thruway Authority’s website and the newly redesigned NYS Thruway mobile app, available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides access to real-time traffic information and live traffic cameras, service area information, toll calculator, roadside assistance requests and E-ZPass and Tolls by Mail information. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert emails which provide the latest conditions along the Thruway.

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 the App Store or Google Play. The free service allows users to check road conditions, view 2,219 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.

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