ADOT: No holiday closures on state highways

PHOENIX – Drivers heading to the high country, the beach or elsewhere over the Labor Day weekend will not face any construction closures along state highways. That’s the word from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT).

No construction closures are scheduled for state highway projects, including improvement projects along Phoenix area freeways, over the three-day holiday weekend.

While no closures are scheduled, ADOT Director John Halikowski is urging travelers to be prepared in the event of an unscheduled closure.

“Those of us in the business of public safety have no control over where or when a crash might occur, or if a vehicle breaks down,” said Halikowski. “Drivers have to avoid all impairments, including alcohol or drugs, too little sleep or everyday distractions. That way, we lessen the chances of an unscheduled highway closure because of a crash.”

ADOT recommends travelers bring extra drinking water, snack foods and other supplies to help them stay cool in case they face an extended stop.

In 2009, seven people were killed in five fatal crashes on highways and local roads in Arizona over the Labor Day weekend.

ADOT joins with the State Department of Public Safety and Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in urging drivers to follow these safe driving rules.

Never Drink and Drive; Arrange for a Designated Driver if necessary
Check Your Vehicle, Including Tire Pressure, Before Traveling
Get a Good Night’s Rest Before Starting Out on a Trip
Buckle Up – That Includes You and Your Passengers
Follow Speed Limits; Don’t Follow Other Vehicles Too Closely
Use Caution in Existing Work Zones

Motorists also are asked to be extremely cautious about the continued fire danger this weekend. All it takes is a tossed cigarette or a hot vehicle pulling onto a highway shoulder to ignite dry brush. Despite monsoon rains, the danger of wildfires still exists across the state.

You can stay up to date on highway conditions prior to traveling by visiting the ADOT Travel Information site at www.az511.gov or by calling 5-1-1.