RICHMOND, Va. (CBSDC/AP) — The Virginia Department of Transportation is making it easier for Thanksgiving travelers to reach their destinations.

Most lane closures on major highways will be suspended from noon Nov. 21 until noon Nov. 26. However, long-term construction zones will remain.

The agency says it also has created and posted online maps showing expected periods of heavy traffic on interstates.

Travelers likely will encounter the heaviest congestion on Nov. 25 in the afternoon and evening.

The recently opened 495 Express Lanes are expected to help ease congestion on the Capital Beltway during peak traffic time.

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