For holiday travelers, Georgia DOT will suspend construction-related lane closures on all interstates and major state routes from 12 p.m., Tuesday, December 23 until 5 a.m., Monday, December 29.

Permanent lane closures may also be in place on I-85 in Meriwether and Coweta counties, I-75 in South Georgia and I-95 on the coast. Also, incident management or emergency maintenance-related land closures could become necessary on any route.

Georgia DOT is also advising motorists to expect delays, plan ahead and be patient as they wrap up last minute shopping or visit friends and family during the upcoming holidays. Last year 18 people were killed on Georgia's roads between December 21 and December 28.

"It is always tragic to lose a loved one, but it is particularly difficult during the holidays," said Georgia DOT Commissioner Gena Evans. "We want everyone to have a happy and safe holiday."

According to District Engineer Anthony J. "Tony" Collins, traffic congestion is likely to increase leading up to December 25th. "With Christmas day falling so close to a weekend we expect many families to drive to their destination which could result in heavier than usual congestion on most state routes and interstates."

The department urges motorists to drive cautiously as work not requiring lane closures may continue on some projects, especially less-traveled state and local system roads and streets.

Check the maps on www.georgianavigator. com for current road conditions, or call 511 on any phone for free, real-time traffic information. Traveler information is also available at www.511ga.org and a toll-free number for callers from outside the state, 1-877-MYGA511 (1-877-694- 2511).

Georgia 511 provides statewide traffic conditions, route-specific information and estimated travel times within metro Atlanta. Additionally, 511 callers can access transit providers, major airports, rideshare organizations, Georgia tourism information and 511 systems in neighboring states.

For those preparing to fly, 511 connects callers to airports in Atlanta and Savannah for information on parking, delays or connections to carriers. An automated voice recognition system guides the service, but callers can also reach live operators to report accidents or congestion, request HERO assistance or obtain additional information.

The Georgia Department of Transportation is committed to providing a safe, seamless and sustainable transportation system that supports Georgia's economy and is sensitive to both its citizens and its environment. For general information on the Georgia DOT, please visit our Web site, www.dot.ga.gov.