To help ease travel around Arizona over the Memorial Day weekend, ADOT says no construction closures are scheduled on state highways over the holiday, the traditional start to the summer travel season.
In addition, landslide repair work has been completed on State Route 87 (Duthie-Martin Highway), the primary route between the Phoenix area & Payson. ADOT crews this week have fully opened a 4-lane section of SR 87 north of Sunflower which was limited to 1 lane in each direction for several weeks following the March landslide.
ADOT Director Victor Mendez says transportation & law enforcement agencies across the state encourage motorists to slow down & stay alert.
"Drivers create safer conditions & save fuel when they obey the speed limit. Slowing down is the smart & safe thing to do," Mendez said. "As motorists hit the roads this weekend, we hope they view their drive as part of the stress-free start to the summer vacation season."
ADOT, the state Department of Public Safety & the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety are urging holiday travelers to be prepared before heading out on the road this summer.
"We still need drivers to expect the unexpected," Mendez said. "Unscheduled highway closures can & do happen. Make sure your vehicle is ready & pack some extra supplies, like drinking water, just in case something unexpected happens."
Last year, 7 people were killed in 7 fatal crashes in Arizona over the Memorial Day weekend. At least 2 of those fatal crashes were alcohol related.
Here are some safe driving tips for the Memorial Day weekend:
· Make sure you & your passengers are buckled in.
· Check your vehicle before you go; proper tire pressure is important.
· Be patient (Don’t speed & don’t follow other vehicles too closely).
· Get an adequate amount of sleep before a trip.
· Bring extra water & food.
· Build some extra travel time into your schedule.
· NEVER drink & drive.