VDOT to suspend many highway work zones for Thanksgiving travel

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has announced that it will suspend many highway work zones and lift temporary lane closures during Thanksgiving travel.

In an announcement on Nov. 19, the department said it will suspend many highway work zones and lift temporary lane closures on interstates and other major roads in Virginia on Wednesday, Nov. 26, until noon on Monday, Dec. 1.

Although lane closures will be lifted in most areas, drivers may see semi-permanent work zones that will remain in place during this period.

Drivers can check VDOT's Travel Advisories for the latest alerts in their area and around the state.

Travelers can also check the 511 Virginia website or the free mobile 511 app to see real-time updates about construction, traffic, incidents and congestion.

The 511 Virginia website also includes a travel trends map for the Thanksgiving Day holiday period, showing peak congestion periods anticipated on Virginia interstates during that time.

Although the travel trends map cannot predict when congestion will occur, it can help drivers avoid travel when traffic has historically moved the slowest.

You can navigate to the travel trends map by clicking the "Holiday Travel" tab on the 511 Virginia website, then clicking "2025," then selecting "THANKSGIVING 2025" and adding whichever date and time at which you are planning to travel.

VDOT also provided the following tips for safely navigating roads during the holidays:

• Buckle up every time and ensure passengers and car seats are secured.
• If you plan to drink, have a designated driver, use public transportation or make plans for a rideshare.
• Put your phone down and don’t drive distracted.
• Be patient and follow the posted speed limit and consider leaving early to allow extra time to reach your destination.
• Watch for deer and stay extra alert when driving near areas wildlife frequent.
• Obey the “Move Over” law, requiring motorists to move over one lane, if possible, for all vehicles with flashing lights, flares, or warning signs stopped on the side of the road. If drivers are unable to move over, they should reduce their speed and use caution.

For questions or to report hazardous road conditions, drivers can contact VDOT’s 24-hour Customer Service Center online or by calling 800-367-7623.