Ga. DOT Getting Ready for Christmas Traffic

The Georgia Department of Transportation is getting the state’s roads ready for what is expected to be a busy couple of weeks starting with Christmas this week.

From 5 a.m. Tuesday through 10 p.m. Sunday, the Georgia DOT says it will suspend construction-related lane closures on interstates and major state routes throughout Georgia.

That also applies to state routes near what the DOT terms “major retail and tourism centers.”

Georgia Department of Transportation Spokesperson Teri Pope said that even though lane closures for construction reasons are suspended, people should be careful when traveling in the state this week.

“There could still be emergency lane closures because of crashes or emergency maintenance problems,” said Pope. “If you are planning to drive a long way, the best thing to do before you leave your house is call 511.”

Also, the DOT said work zones will still be out there.

Pope said drivers should pay particular attention to certain areas in northeast Georgia that will likely be especially busy this week.

“If you are heading to Lake Lanier Islands off of I-985, know there will be congestion as you approach that exit,” said Pope. “The same thing for the Mall of Georgia in Buford from I-85 and I-985 and the outlet centers in Banks Crossing in Jackson and Banks counties.”

Again, call 511 for free, real-time traffic information in Georgia or go online at www.511ga.org.