News Release Archive

Traffic Delays at Hoover Dam Expected July 4th Weekend

Media Contact: Bob Walsh, 702.293.8421, rwalsh@lc.usbr.gov

For Release: June 29, 2005

Motorists planning to cross Hoover Dam during the Fourth of July holiday weekend should expect heavy and slower-than-normal traffic.

"As on any long holiday weekend, traffic crossing the dam will be heavy," said Hoover Dam Police Chief Rich Melim. Motorists should have flexible schedules to allow for the extra time necessary to cross the dam from Thursday, July 1, through early Tuesday, July 5.

Motorists also should remember that the speed limit approaching and across the dam is only 15 miles per hour, which will be strictly enforced. Based on past experience, the heaviest traffic period occurs between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (Pacific Daylight Saving Time).

Hoover Dam Police officers will be closely monitoring drivers and pedestrians at Hoover Dam to ensure as smooth a flow of foot and vehicle traffic as possible. Historically, large numbers of pedestrians sightsee on top of the dam during a holiday period. Drivers are also reminded to refrain from stopping on the roadway to load and unload passengers. This adds to the overall congestion on top of the dam.

To reduce the chance of encountering a substantial delay, the Bureau of Reclamation recommends drivers plan to cross the dam at non-peak hours, when there is somewhat less traffic and fewer tourists visiting the dam. After dark, visitors are not allowed on the dam.

Additionally, post-Sept. 11, 2001, vehicle restrictions remain in effect. Commercial trucks, buses with luggage, and trailers longer than 26.5 feet, are prohibited from crossing the dam. Cargo-type or rental trucks, recreational vehicles, boats and trailers, and pickups with camper shells or other coverings will be inspected before they are permitted across the dam. All vehicles, including passenger cars and their contents, are always subject to inspection.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.