Lexington, SC - To help holiday travelers, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) prohibits lane closures on interstate highways for non-emergency highway work during the Memorial Day Weekend holiday travel period. These restrictions will be in place from 6 a.m. on Friday, May 22, until 6 a.m. on Tuesday, May 26.
The project to widen I-20 in Lexington County is currently one of the largest construction projects in the Midlands. Any construction closures are prohibited during the holiday period by this rule. The only exception would involve some emergency like a collision, fire, or serious damage to a road caused by some unforeseen event. If an emergency like this occurs and forces unexpected repairs to the driving surface, lane closures will be in effect until the interstate is repaired and it's safe to travel on again.
If an emergency puts first responders at risk, it could also force an unplanned lane closure. If something like this occurs, troopers from the SCHP will coordinate with other public safety agencies to get the lane back open as quickly and safely as possible. The public will be notified of emergency closures by utilizing the SCDOT's 511 system and the social media accounts of agencies that are involved. They could also partner with the area's news media to communicate to the public any emergency lane closures if necessary.
With continued progress due to SCDOT’s Strategic 10-Year Plan to rebuild South Carolina’s roads and bridges, more work zones are in place all across South Carolina. SCDOT reminds motorists to remain alert and use caution.
Rest Areas: SCDOT continues to ensure that frequently touched areas at rest areas are cleaned and disinfected every 30 minutes from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Motorists may keep up with all travel conditions by using SCDOT’s 511 system, which provides real-time traffic information on all South Carolina interstate highways and some of the highways along the coast. Users can call 511 or access www.511SC.org 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and download the free app.