Friday, September 4, 2026

Governor Hochul Suspends Construction-Related Lane Closures for Labor Day Weekend

Lane Closures Suspended From Friday, September 4 at 6:00 a.m. to Tuesday, September 8 at 6:00 a.m.

Motorists Urged To Slow Down and Move Over for All Vehicles

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.

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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