New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction on state highways will be suspended from 6:00 a.m. Friday, August 29, through 6:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 2. The suspension is intended to ease travel during Labor Day weekend and improve safety for highway workers.
“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,” Governor 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.”
While most construction activities will pause, some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. The effort is part of the Drivers First Initiative, which aims to minimize traffic congestion caused by roadwork.
The state’s Move Over Law was expanded in March 2024. Now drivers must slow down and move over for all vehicles stopped along the roadway. Authorities urge motorists to remain vigilant and follow these requirements to protect motorists, roadway workers, and emergency personnel.
Law enforcement agencies across New York are participating in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign until Monday, September 1. The initiative increases patrols and checkpoints targeting impaired and reckless driving.
New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “The Labor Day holiday is a busy weekend for travel, and we want motorists to arrive at their destinations safely and with fewer delays. We urge motorists to make safety a priority, remain alert, slow down and safely move over for any vehicle on the side of the road. We thank our partners at New York State Police Troop T for patrolling the Thruway and keeping motorists safe.”
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez stated that travelers should plan ahead using resources such as the 511NY app for checking road conditions before traveling. She added: “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. And don’t forget, the 511NY app is a great resource for checking out road and traffic conditions before you start traveling. Let’s all follow the rules of the road, pay attention while driving and enjoy a great Labor Day weekend with family and friends.”
State Police Superintendent Steven G. James advised caution through work zones even with construction suspended: “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.”
Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder reminded travelers about planning ahead if consuming alcohol or cannabis: “We know that many people will be hitting New York’s roads to celebrate the unofficial end of summer with family and friends, but it is up to all of us to make sure those roads are safe. If you are going to drink alcohol or consume cannabis, make sure you have a plan to get home safely. Follow the rules of the road, watch your speed and be aware of what is happening in front of and around you.”
Text stops—including park-and-ride lots—along highways support efforts against distracted driving.
As part of ongoing upgrades valued at $450 million covering 27 service areas between Hudson Valley and Pennsylvania on the Thruway, every service area except one under construction on I-87 southbound remains open; fuel services are available at all sites.
Travelers can check road conditions via NYSDOT’s 511NY by calling 5-1-1 or using its mobile app featuring real-time updates from more than 2,000 cameras statewide.
The STOP-DWI Have a Plan app helps drivers find alternatives if impaired; it lets users designate drivers or call rideshares/taxis.
