DOT Suspending Some Lane Closures for Sales Tax Holiday

Shoppers will get a break from road construction this weekend to go along with the state’s suspension of the sales tax for school supplies, clothing, and computer equipment.

The Georgia Department of Transportation said it will suspend construction-related lane closures within five miles of a shopping mall or major shopping district on all interstates and major state routes beginning at 8 a.m. Saturday and lasting through 10 p.m. Sunday.

DOT officials reminded travelers to exercise caution nonetheless as heavy holiday traffic is expected throughout the state; crews may be still be working in close proximity to highways; and safety concerns may require some long-term lane closures remain in place.

Also, the DOT said incident management or emergency, maintenance-related lane closures could become necessary at any time on any route.

Georgia DOT District Engineer Brent Cook said the sales tax holiday is an opportunity for Georgians to save a little money during these challenging economic times and the agency is glad to be able to offer some relief from lane closures as families prepare for the start of school.

During the annual “back to school” sales tax holiday, Georgia shoppers will have the opportunity to purchase certain clothing items, computers and computer accessories tax-free.

More information concerning the 2016 Sales Tax Holiday and tax exempt items can be found on the Georgia Department of Revenue’s website at dor.georgia.gov and going to “2016 Sales Tax Holidays” under the “news” section.