VDOT warns of holiday congestion

The Virginia Department of Transportation plans to lift all temporary lane closures beginning at noon Wednesday and continuing through noon Monday, Nov 29. VDOT is trying to lessen the potential for delays during the busy Thanksgiving travel period.

Officials say drivers should plan to begin their travels before noon Wednesday to avoid most traffic. The agency has collected data going back seven years that shows when the busiest travel times are. The busiest time is expected to be noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday.

VDOT says drivers can expect heavy congestion in the following locations (keep in mind that this isn't an exhaustive list):

-- Interstate 95 between Richmond and Interstates 495/395 Springfield Interchange

-- Interstate 66 eastbound and westbound in Northern Virginia

-- Interstates 81/77 interchange near Wytheville

-- I-81 near Lexington to south of Roanoke

-- Interstates 64/95 in the Richmond area

VDOT plans to lift HOV restrictions on I-66, I-95 and I-395 on Thanksgiving Day, but the limits will be in effect on Wednesday and Friday.

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