​(September 4, 2020) – As Marylanders prepare for the Labor Day weekend and the official close of summer, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is reminding motorists to travel during non-peak hours, plan ahead and focus on safety as a top priority for themselves and other travelers. MDOT SHA’s website – roads.maryland.gov – provides important information as well as real-time traffic and weather conditions to help Marylanders close the summer safely and efficiently.

“If you are traveling during the holiday weekend, please travel safely and allow for plenty of time to reach your destination,” said MDOT SHA Administrator Tim Smith. “MDOT SHA’s website provides reliable, current traffic and road closure information, as well as weather-related traffic events and conditions. When traveling in Maryland, use our website to assist you in reaching your destination in the safest, most efficient manner.”

With more people expected to be on the road and attending family gatherings over the long weekend, MDOT SHA also encourages travelers to follow face covering and social distancing guidelines as Maryland continues its COVID-19 recovery.

Increased traffic volumes are expected to begin Thursday afternoon and continue throughout the weekend in the Baltimore and Washington metropolitan regions and along routes including US 50, Interstate 95, I-81, I-70 and I-68 toward western Maryland. Saturday and Sunday travel over Labor Day weekend is traditionally heavy as well, and delays should also be expected Monday, September 7, as travelers return home.   

Emergency traffic patrols will be available to assist disabled vehicles and to clear incidents quickly and safely. Drivers are reminded to “Move Over” when approaching an emergency vehicle or tow trucks using visual signals. If you are unable to move over, slow down.

MDOT SHA provides the following tips to keep travelers safe during the Labor Day weekend:

• Buckle up. It’s the law.
• Stay alert. Put the cell phones down.
• Slow down. Observe the posted speed limits.
• Travel during off peak hours and allow extra time for unexpected delays.
• In case of an emergency along interstate routes, drivers with cell phones can dial #77 to reach ​Maryland State Police.

MDOT SHA hopes all Marylanders and visitors have a safe and happy Labor Day. Visit roads.maryland.gov for traffic information, follow us on Twitter @MDSHA and on Facebook at facebook.com/MDOTSHA/.

Editor’s Note

From intersection improvements to widening and new interchange construction, MDOT SHA is investing in projects to enhance the commute and daily travel for millions of Marylanders.  MDOT SHA maintains more than 2,500 bridges and 17,000 miles of non-toll state roads – the interstate, US and state numbered routes in Maryland’s 23 counties.