AAA predicts that 79.9 million U.S. travelers will hit the road or the skies to go at least 50 miles during the Thanksgiving holiday period.
A press release stated this surpasses last year’s record by 1.7 million and marks a 2 million person increase over 2019 travelers.
“In an effort to better capture the flow of holiday travelers, AAA expanded the number of days in the Thanksgiving holiday travel period. Instead of Wednesday through Sunday, this year’s Thanksgiving holiday travel period is seven days, stretching from Nov. 26 to Dec. 2,” the release stated.
AAA attributed the increase in travelers to economics, including “robust wage growth,” and the stabilization of the inflation cost of common travel products. It also mentioned the decrease in Colorado gas prices, falling from an average $3.26 per gallon in 2023 to $2.98.
According to AAA, the worst times to travel by car over the holiday period are Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons. The best time is on Thanksgiving Day itself, “when interstates and highways are typically clear.”
AAA also reminded drivers of the “Move Over for Me” law, which requires drivers to give extra space for first responders and police, tow trucks and any disabled vehicle on the side of a roadway.
Lisa Schwantes, Colorado Department of Transportation regional communications manager, said travelers in and around Chaffee County should be aware of two projects currently under construction that drivers should be aware of and may slow down traffic. The U.S. 285/U.S. 50 intersection and surface improvement in Poncha Springs was the first she mentioned, the second being U.S. 24 intersection improvements in Buena Vista.
She also noted that the City of Salida has an ongoing project on Oak Street, and drivers should contact the city for more information on progress of that project and their work schedule for the holiday travel period.
“Motorists should plan ahead and know before you go. That means checking the weather forecast and road conditions. Travelers should know the answers to these questions: What weather might you encounter? What are road conditions like on your planned route? Is it sunny with dry road conditions for smooth sailing? Or is there a storm brewing with wet, icy or snowpacked road surface conditions? Travelers are encouraged to download the free COtrip Planner app on their phones,” Schwantes said. “Additionally, travelers should be ‘winter-ready’ so that they are prepared for challenging weather conditions. It’s critical to have the appropriate tires with adequate tread for wet, icy or snowpacked roads. It is also important to pack a safety survival kit including blankets, extra clothing, food, water and a flashlight with extra batteries. It’s wise to have in your trunk a shovel and sand or cat litter to help with traction if you get stuck.”
Although a forecast for Thanksgiving Day is not yet available, those planning to travel throughout the holiday period can visit the National Weather Service website for forecast information.
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