Big Idea

• Drivers who are planning road trips over the Memorial Day weekend should prepare in advance
• No full construction or maintenance closures along state highways for the Memorial Day weekend
• Hot weather could be encountered, motorists should pack extra water, blankets, first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, cell phone + charger, snacks, diapers
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions
• Read more...

Travel delays are always possible

Drivers who are planning road trips over the Memorial Day weekend should prepare ahead of time for hot weather in areas, stay alert and bring along essential items in case of an unscheduled stop in traffic.

The Arizona Department of Transportation is not scheduling any full construction or maintenance closures along state highways from Friday afternoon, May 28, through Monday night, May 31, to limit impacts on holiday weekend travel.

Drivers should allow extra time, especially during peak travel periods, and be prepared for unscheduled highway closures due to crashes, disabled vehicles or other incidents such as wildfires. 

While no full construction closures are scheduled over the three-day weekend, drivers should prepare to slow down and merge safely when approaching and traveling through existing work zones. 

Motorists also should pack extra drinking water and other items including blankets, a first aid kit, flashlight, extra batteries, a fully charged cell phone and charger, healthy snacks, baby diapers if necessary and a small tool kit. 

Since travel delays are possible, don’t forget an adequate amount of prescription medicines. A hat, sunglasses and umbrella - to help with rain or shade - also are good items to remember. 

Be prepared for changing weather conditions, including blowing dust. ADOT’s holiday weekend safe driving recommendations include:

• Never drive while impaired. Buckle up and obey speed limits 
• Arrange for a designated driver or ride service if necessary
• Check your vehicle, including tire pressure
• Get some rest before traveling. Fatigue is a serious safety risk
• Avoid distractions. Don’t text while driving
• Don’t park in areas with grasses and brush. Hot vehicle components could start a fire

Real-time highway conditions are available on ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov  ADOT also provides highway condition updates via its Twitter feed, @ArizonaDOT  When a highway closure or other major traffic event occurs, our free app available at ADOTAlerts.com will send critical information directly to app users in affected areas – where possible, in advance of alternate routes.

To plan your trip, get travel times or see ADOT cameras, download the AZ 511 app. 

Download the free ADOT Alerts app and know when unplanned, major events are impacting traffic near you.

Visit us on social media on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr or the ADOT blog.

For more information, visit azdot.gov