Memorial Day weekend travelers in Arizona have a clear road ahead as the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) confirms there will be no scheduled highway closures from May 23 to May 26, enabling an uninterrupted flow of traffic during one of the year's busiest travel periods.
For those looking to make the most out of the holiday weekend, there's a collective sigh of relief because not a single construction project will clog the major arteries of travel, such as Phoenix-area freeways, although ADOT cautions that delays are still possible due to the natural ebb and flow of peak travel times, and they recommend that drivers allow extra time on Friday and Monday afternoons especially since I-17 amidst the Anthem Way and Sunset Point could still have the usual work zone slowdowns, according to AZDOT's announcement.
ADOT, while promoting a message of safety and readiness, counsels drivers to anticipate the unexpected, such as unscheduled closures due to crashes or wildfires, by packing an emergency kit equipped with water, a flashlight, batteries, a charged cellphone with charger, and necessary medications; the kit should also have blankets, snacks, and a small tool kit for unforeseen incidents.
The department further advises taking precautions against weather-induced hazards, including dust storms, and prepares a list of measures for safe travel, which emphasizes the importance of focusing on the road, checking vehicle conditions before departure, getting enough rest, and, of course, not driving impaired but rather ensuring you have a designated driver arranged. Also, when towing, ensure the safety chains aren't dragging on the ground, as they could create sparks that may lead to brush fires. It is equally important to avoid parking in tall grass where your car's heat could ignite a wildfire, as stated in AZDOT's announcement.
To stay current with real-time highway conditions, ADOT provides updates via the Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov, the AZ511 app, and by calling 511; additionally, travelers can follow ADOT's Twitter feed, @ArizonaDOT, for the most recent information.
