The Georgia Department of Transportation is giving Thanksgiving travelers some relief on the roads this year. GDOT announced it will suspend construction-related lane closures on interstates, major state routes, and roadways near major shopping areas beginning at 5 a.m. Wednesday, November 26, through 10 p.m. Sunday, November 30. The goal is to ease congestion and help motorists reach their holiday destinations with fewer delays.
Officials caution that while lane closures will be lifted, crews may still be working near highways, and some long-term closures will remain in place where safety requires it. Emergency closures may also occur as needed. Drivers are urged to stay alert, follow posted signs, and use extra caution around work zones.
GDOT expects metro Atlanta traffic to begin building as early as Monday afternoon, November 24, with heavier-than-normal congestion anticipated on Wednesday. Saturday, November 29, is projected to carry a higher risk for crashes, and post-holiday traffic is expected to peak between 5 and 8 p.m. Sunday.
For those who must travel, GDOT offers a detailed forecast for metro Atlanta: heavy traffic is likely from noon to 6 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday; light to normal traffic is expected on Thanksgiving Day and Friday; and moderate congestion is projected Sunday evening. Surface streets are also expected to see heavier traffic Tuesday and Wednesday, with lighter conditions from Thursday through Saturday.
Drivers can check real-time updates on the GDOT website or through the 511GA app. The agency is encouraging all motorists to plan ahead and travel safely throughout the holiday weekend.