Construction suspended for Fourth of July weekend

May 27, 2016 Norcross - Afternoon rush hour traffic on was backed up for miles in both directions on I-85 in Gwinnett County on Friday, May 27, 2016. HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC.COM

Credit: Rodney Thrash

Credit: Rodney Thrash

May 27, 2016 Norcross - Afternoon rush hour traffic on was backed up for miles in both directions on I-85 in Gwinnett County on Friday, May 27, 2016. HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC.COM

The Georgia Department of Transportation is trying to ease Fourth of July traffic congestion, officials said. In a press release, the department said it will suspend construction-related lane closures on interstate and major state system highways over the holiday weekend.

There will be no construction-related lane closures from 5 a.m. Friday until just after midnight Tuesday.

“We expect heavy holiday traffic across the state as people head to parades, barbecues and fireworks,” GDOT construction director Marc Mastronardi said. “By restricting lane closures, we hope this will enable motorists to travel with fewer delays and less stress.”

The department said construction crews may still work along highways this weekend and encourage drivers to practice caution when driving in work zones.