Enhanced 511 system provides new features to help travelers plan ahead
RICHMOND, Va. — The Thanksgiving holiday is almost here. That means turkey, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. It also means more people traveling on the roads to visit their loved ones. To help everyone arrive at their destinations safely, VDOT is suspending many highway work zones and lifting most lane closures on interstates and other major roads from noon on Wednesday, Nov. 27 until noon on Monday, Dec. 2.
While lane closures will be lifted in most locations, motorists may encounter semi-permanent work zones that remain in place during this time.
VDOT offers several resources to help plan travel ahead of time.
TRAVEL TRENDS MAP HELPS ESTIMATE PEAK CONGESTION
Based on historical data, periods of heavy congestion are most likely to occur from mid-morning to evening on Tuesday and throughout the day on Wednesday before Thanksgiving and Sunday after Thanksgiving, with pockets of congestion on Saturday near shopping destinations. VDOT's online, interactive travel trends map shows peak congestion times anticipated on Virginia interstates during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday period. While it cannot precisely predict when congestion will occur this year, it can help motorists avoid travel when traffic has historically moved the slowest.
PLAN AHEAD WITH ENHANCED VDOT 511: TRAFFIC INFORMATION AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Upgrades to the 511 website and phone system bring an improved experience for travelers to aid in navigating the roadways this season. The latest version includes highly tailored my511 notifications, faster and clearer traffic cameras, estimated toll pricing pins, new travel time graphics, improved park-and-ride information, and more enhanced map features. To receive travel alerts, users will need to register on 511.vdot.virginia.gov. Travelers can access the 511 system on the website, mobile app or by calling 511 from any phone in Virginia.
NORTHERN VIRGINIA EXPRESS LANES SCHEDULE AND OTHER INFORMATION
HAMPTON ROADS TUNNELS AND OTHER INFORMATION
STAY SAFE
Here are some additional tips for safely navigating the roadways during the holiday period:
For questions or to report hazardous road conditions, contact VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center by visiting my.vdot.virginia.gov or calling 800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623).
Last updated: December 5, 2024