This Labor Day weekend is likely to be a busy one, so make sure to plan ahead if you’re hoping to hit the roads.
Mary Maguire, director of public and legislative affairs for AAA Northeast, said 31 percent of respondents to their informal regional survey plan to travel for Labor Day weekend. 49 percent of respondents plan not to travel and 20 percent were undecided. 70 percent surveyed said inflation was a factor in formulating their travel plans.
But, lowered gas prices are likely to encourage people to travel this weekend. Gas prices in Massachusetts have dropped below $4 a gallon for the first time since the high of $5 a gallon in mid-June, Maguire said.
“We’re $3.97 for regular unleaded in Massachusetts today,” she said. “And then I'm sure, combined with a good weather forecast for the weekend generally will propel more travelers to hit the road, take day trips with gasoline prices falling and with sunshine predicted for Saturday and Sunday.”
In preparation for heavier traffic on Labor Day weekend, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation is shutting down scheduled, non-emergency construction from Friday through Sept. 6.
The Massachusetts Port Authority is expecting an increase in passengers at Logan Airport this weekend, especially on Sunday evening, according to Massport Assistant Director of Media Relations Samantha Decker.
Massport encourages the use of public transportation, the MBTA’s Blue and Silver Lines, and the Logan Express for travel to and from the airport. There are ongoing construction projects and drivers should make sure pay attention and follow signage while at Logan.
To prepare for any delays and cancellations, Maguire said her advice to travelers at Logan is to take the first flight out in the morning, sign up for text and email alerts from airlines, and try to pack a carry on instead of a checked luggage. She also advises downloading an airline's mobile app to easily rebook flights if needed.
The
MBTA
announced that all subway lines and bus routes will operate on a Sunday schedule on Labor Day, while the Commuter Rail will operate on a weekend schedule.
