NCDOT Will Suspend Traffic Projects Over the Memorial Day Holiday

NCDOT AIMS TO HELP TRAVELERS SAVE TIME AND MONEY
OVER MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

RALEIGH — The N.C. Department of Transportation is taking steps to help motorists save both time and money this holiday weekend by suspending most road construction activities on major routes across the state. By avoiding traffic delays, motorists can reach their destinations more quickly while also cutting down on fuel consumption and costs.

Most construction projects along interstate, N.C. and U.S. routes will be suspended beginning at 4 p.m. on Friday, May 28, until 9 a.m., Tuesday, June 1, with three exceptions:

• I-85 South in Guilford County is reduced to two lanes at Exit 113 (N.C. 62) due to construction of the I-73/U.S. 311 Bypass;
• Both directions of I-40 in Greensboro (Guilford County) are reduced to two lanes between mile marker 213 and 214 due to construction of the Bridford Parkway Bridge; and
• U.S. 17 in Windsor (Bertie County) is reduced to one lane on the Cashie River Bridge due to construction. Traffic is controlled by signals; however, trucks are restricted on this route and detour signs are in place. All motorists are encouraged to use the U.S. 17 Bypass around Windsor to avoid possible delays.

Here are some additional tips for navigating the highways during busy holiday travel seasons:

• Leave early to get a head start on your drive. Travel at non-peak hours when possible.
• Stay alert. Even if work is suspended, you may encounter narrowed lanes and traffic shifts in work zone areas.
• Be patient and obey the posted speed limit. The penalty for speeding through a marked work zone is $250.
• Use alternate routes, when possible, to avoid traffic congestion.
• Stay informed. Real-time travel information is available over the phone by dialing 511, or online at www.ncdot.gov/travel. NCDOT also now offers Twitter updates for motorists and ferry passengers (visit www.ncdot.gov/travel for more information).

To help reduce fuel consumption and save money:

• Don’t rush. "Jack-rabbit" starts and hard braking alone can increase fuel consumption by 40 percent, but reduce travel time by only 4 percent.
• Observe the speed limit. Not exceeding 60 miles per hour (where legally allowed) can improve mileage by 7-23 percent.
• Use cruise control. Using cruise control on 10,000 miles driven in a year could save you nearly $200 and save more than 60 gallons of fuel, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.
• Remove unnecessary items. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle can reduce your miles per gallon by up to 2 percent. Wind resistance can also reduce mileage so avoid using luggage racks, rooftop carriers and ski racks when they are not needed.
• Maintain your vehicle. Keeping your tires properly inflated, changing your oil and replacing air filters can all help improve fuel economy.

For more information on how to “Drive Green, Save Green,” visit http://www.ncdot.gov/programs/drivegreen/.