Are you planning on getting away this holiday weekend? Prepare for company.
Nationally, travel for the Memorial Day weekend is expected to be high this year, leaping 4.7 percent over last year — the highest volume since 2005 and the biggest one-year forecasted jump since 2012, according to AAA Travel. The trade group includes Thursday in that equation. The long weekend typically marks the start of the summer travel season.
Better job rates, good gas prices, and lovely weather all play a role.
Some tips for local drivers:
– Allow extra time and check Washington State Department of Transportation sources for traffic conditions at www.wsdot.wa.gov.
– Consider off-peak hours for your drive. WSDOT lists some recommendations based off number-crunching for past holidays. Heading on U.S. 2 to Stevens Pass, for example, your best bet is to leave before 8 a.m. Saturday. WSDOT also is re-timing signals on U.S. 2 to help keep traffic flowing.
– Make reservations for ferry rides. Reservation holders get priority on all departures. Visit www.takeaferry.com or call 888-808-7977. WSDOT also charts “Best Travel Times” for sailings on the schedule page at www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries.
– Consider the train, personal aircraft or the bus. Most public transit systems will be following a holiday schedule.
Have a question? Email us at streetsmarts@heraldnet.com. Please include your name and city of residence. Look for updates on our Street Smarts blog.
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