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| 11/22/2005 |
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For more information contact: Julianne Repman, Public Information, 541-388-6224
Heidi Hiaasen, Project Communications, 541-388-6178
Plan ahead and avoid delays on Interstate 5 during Thanksgiving
If you are planning to take a long trip this Thanksgiving, the Oregon Department of Transportation advises travel during off-peak hours and pre-trip preparation for a safe, enjoyable trip on Interstate 5.
ODOT expects significant delays at three I-5 location: Quines Creek (MP 86), Oakland (MP 138) and Sutherlin (MP 136) during the Thanksgiving holiday travel period. Traffic models show high levels of congestion and extended delays during Wednesday afternoon (Nov. 23) and Sunday afternoon (Nov. 27).
“Traffic volumes rise quickly during holidays,” said ODOT Area Manager Chris Hunter. “Unfortunately, our bridge replacement projects require lane closures and speed reductions to remain in place during the holidays.”
At Quines Creek and Oakland, I-5 has a single-lane in each direction. At Quines Creek and Sutherlin, the I-5 speed limit is reduced to 55 mph.
Pre-trip preparation
“Thanksgiving travel often means longer trips during cold and wet weather,” said ODOT Transportation Safety Coordinator Rosalee Senger. “Pre-trip preparation is essential for safe travel.”
A pre-trip vehicle inspection should include windshield wipers, tires, anti-freeze levels, and radiator hoses. Check the heater, the defroster, and the age of the battery. Test all lights and fill the fuel tank.
Traveling with children
According to Senger, the most important thing to remember is properly securing your child in the back seat with an age-appropriate safety seat.
“If you travel with an infant or baby, pack extra food, warm clothes and blankets, some toys and games, and extra diapers,” Senger said. “Don’t attempt to drive so many miles in one stretch. Adults can travel farther than children. Don’t forget to stop regularly at rest areas.”
Senger also recommends motorists, before leaving, tell a family member or friend where they are going, the planned route, and when they will return.
Useful items to pack
· A good highway map.
· Tire chains or other traction devices.
· An ice scraper, battery booster cables, road flares, a properly inflated spare tire, a vehicle jack, lug wrench and a basic tool kit.
· A small shovel and a bag of kitty litter or sand for traction in case you get stuck, and a plastic tarp to help keep you dry when installing tire chains.
· A flashlight with extra batteries and bulbs, an extra pair of winter gloves and a warm hat, a change of clothes and a warm blanket, snack foods and a first aid kit.
· A large thermos filled with water or a hot drink.
· A cell phone (with charged batteries).
Road condition updates
Road condition updates are available on the department’s travel information Web site, www.Tripcheck.com or by calling 511. The old number, 1-800-977-ODOT (6368), is still available. From people calling outside of Oregon, the number is 1-503-588-2941.
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