Ohio Turnpike partners with OSHP for safe holiday travel

OHIO — Officials across the state are urging drivers to follow traffic laws this week with increases in traffic expected for the Thanksgiving holiday. 

The Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission and the Ohio State Highway Patrol want to remind drivers to buckle up, drive sober and avoid distractions when behind the wheel.

“We have much to be thankful for, and we’d like to see everyone arrive safely for the holidays,” said Executive Director Ferzan Ahmed, P.E., of the Turnpike Commission. “Plan ahead, leave early and take a break if you need to at one of our conveniently located 14 service plazas.”

The Ohio Turnpike is aiming to accommodate the increase in traffic by reducing construction in work zones to two work zones from Wednesday, Nov. 26 through Sunday, Nov. 30. Officials said at least two lanes of traffic will remain open in both the eastbound and westbound directions along the turnpike. 

In 2024, 800,000 vehicle transactions were recorded Wednesday through Sunday and nearly 50 million vehicle miles were traveled. 

“Weather conditions across the northern counties are currently looking favorable, but as we all know, this is Ohio — things can change quickly,” said Chief Engineer and Deputy Executive Director Chris Matta, P.E. “If snow does arrive, please give our snowplow operators the space they need to work safely. Never pass them on the right and always maintain a distance of at least 200 feet behind them.”

Over the past five years, or 25 total days, during the Thanksgiving Holiday reporting period, the OSHP has issued more than 1,200 speeding citations on the turnpike. These include nearly 500 for speeds of 20 mph or more over the limit. 

“As motorists, there are many choices within our control when we get behind the wheel,” said OSHP Sgt. Ryan Purpura. “Wearing your safety belt, staying focused, driving sober and obeying the speed limit are simple steps that will make this Thanksgiving travel period safer for everyone. This holiday is about family, friends and loved ones coming together, and we do not want a preventable mistake to turn celebration into tragedy.”

A customer appreciation event is being held on Wednesday, Nov. 26, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Middle Ridge Service Plaza (milepost 139.5 westbound) in Amherst to promote roadway safety

The public is encouraged to call #677 to report impaired or reckless drivers and stranded motorists.