Michigan lifts 60% of travel restrictions for July 4 weekend

(CBS) – Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that traffic restrictions on several Michigan roadways would be temporarily lifted during the July 4 holiday.

From 3 p.m. Wednesday to 6 a.m. Monday, restrictions will be lifted for 105 of the 174 construction projects, according to a press release.

State officials say certain regulations, such as temporary shifts or shoulder closures, will remain in place. A list of work zones that will remain in place can be found on the state’s website.

“The Fourth of July weekend is an opportunity to come together with family and friends, enjoy the splendor of Pure Michigan and celebrate our independence,” Whitmer said in a statement. “To ensure Michiganders get to their destinations safely and on time, we are moving construction bins and lifting traffic restrictions. Since I took office by the end of this year’s construction season, we will have repaired or replaced nearly 23,000 lane miles of roads and 1,600 bridges, creating tens of thousands of good-paying jobs. I am proud of what we have accomplished and wish all Michiganders a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.”

According to AAA, more than 2.6 million Michigan residents will travel 50 miles or more between June 29 and July 7. In total, 70.9 million people nationwide will travel in the next few days.

“The summer travel season is off to a hot start and we expect to set new travel records on the road and in the air during Independence Day week,” said Debbie Haas, vice president of travel at AAA. “There will be 3.5 million more travelers than last year. That means even more people at airports and popular attractions like beaches, lakes and theme parks.”