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Heavy Holiday Travel Expected

aaa.com

AAA is not providing any national travel projections this year, but the auto club is saying after 35 and a half million Americans traveled 50 miles or more for Labor Day, even more people are expected this year.

The lowest gas prices in 12 years helps put people in the mood to travel.

And the New York State Thruway will be especially busy.

Spokesperson for AAA of Western and Central New York, Elizabeth Carey, says AAA analyzed data from the New York State Thruway Authority, and they expect a ten percent increase on the roadway on Labor Day compared to an average Monday.

Carey says the data show that E-Z Pass usage drops by four percent on Labor Day, while cash transactions go up by thirty-seven percent.

Credit www.thruway.ny.gov

She says that combination can cause gridlock at the toll booths.

"Travel early, try to avoid that holiday traffic congestion, also use E-Z Pass, you can get them right at AAA, that should help you get through those toll barriers quickly," she said. 

She says the lowest gas prices since 2004 are inspiring many people to take one last vacation.

"One of the big things that's expected to increase the travel this weekend is the lowest gas prices since 20404, and of course what an incredible summer we had weather wise, so a lot of people in western and central NY are looking to get away for their one last chance for the summer," she said.

Gas prices in Rochester are around $2.28 a gallon, about 25 cents per gallon lower than last year.