Maine Turnpike officials are gearing up for the busy Memorial Day weekend.

The three-day weekend usually marks the beginning of tourist season in Maine, and officials estimate more than 1 million vehicles will travel on the turnpike this weekend. 

The Maine Turnpike Safety Patrol will also be on hand throughout the weekend offering free roadside assistance. The patrol will operate from the Piscataqua Bridge in Kittery through Exit 19 in Wells between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Friday through Monday.

“Maine residents and visitors can do their part by checking their fuel gauge to avoid running out of gas, ensuring their loads are safely secured, and keeping an eye out for other roadway users,” the turnpike authority stated. 

Turnpike officials said construction will be suspended for the weekend but urged drivers to still use caution when traveling through work zones.

Miles the Maine Turnpike Moose mascot will be visiting the northbound Kennebunk Service Plaza on Friday, May 26, which is expected to be the busiest day of the weekend. 

“Miles was a staple at the York Toll Plaza on Labor Day for decades, but with the introduction of Open Road Tolling at York he has had to find a safer place to greet visitors and has added Memorial Day to his schedule,” The turnpike authority wrote in a statement.