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Memorial Day Travel Info: 42 million expected to hit the road this weekend

BOSTON — Thursday starts the Memorial Day holiday travel rush and experts warn it will be the busiest for travelers in more than a decade.

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Officials say they expect about 42 million drivers to head out onto the roads over the long holiday weekend.

IMPORTANT LINKS: MassDOT | MBTA | Amtrak | Logan International Airport | AAA

That 5 percent spike comes amid rising gas prices. The national average for a gallon of gas is $2.95. In 17 states, gas is at $3 a gallon. That increase was unexpected, but most drivers said it won’t affect their travel plans.

In terms of volume, MassDOT is telling drivers to plan ahead.

“We traditionally see a high number of drivers on roads Memorial Day weekend,” MassDOT Highway Administrator Jonathan Gulliver said.  “Many drivers begin to travel the Thursday before Memorial Day and the actual holiday is when many drivers choose to return home.  Anyone planning to drive should try to travel in off-peak hours, should build extra time into their trips and may want to check the MassDOT Go Time app or other apps to help with decisions on which roads to take.”

Massachusetts State Police are warning drivers to be safe, and say they'll be cracking down on drunk driving over the weekend.

"Remember the real meaning of the holiday—to remember and honor the brave men and women who gave the full measure of sacrifice for our country," State Police wrote. "To honor their sacrifices, please act responsibly  and consider the impact of your actions on others.”

Road work will end Friday at noon so drivers won’t be delayed by that.

Cape Cod travelers can also consider using the Cape Flyer train service, which starts again on Friday.

So, the big question is – when should you hit the road? You may want to avoid these times:

  • AAA predicts Thursday between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. will be the busiest.
  • Waze says the busiest time to travel will be Friday between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Procrastinators will want to avoid hitting the road Saturday between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

In terms of getting home Sunday and Monday, the peak travel times are expected between noon and 2 p.m.

Tuesday between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. are also expected to be busy.

The MBTA has also released the following information regarding travel on Memorial Day:

  • All subway and commuter rail lines, busses, and trackless trolley will operate on a Sunday schedule.
  • All ferries and boats will operate on a Sunday schedule.
  • The RIDE will operate on a Sunday schedule.
  • The CharlieCard store at Downtown Crossing in Boston will be closed.
  • For full MBTA schedule details, click here.

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This weekend is more than bbqs...it's about remembering those who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom.

Posted by Boston 25 News on Thursday, May 24, 2018