Roads across Walker County are expected to be busier than usual as millions of Georgians prepare to travel for the Independence Day holiday.
AAA projects more than 2.4 million Georgians will travel at least 50 miles from home during the Fourth of July travel period, which runs from Saturday, June 27, through Sunday, July 5. The forecast represents a one percent increase over last year and sets a new record for Independence Day travel in Georgia.
The majority of those travelers — more than 2.1 million — are expected to drive, making highways across Northwest Georgia among the busiest routes during the holiday week.
For Walker County residents, that could mean increased traffic on U.S. Highway 27, Interstate 75 and nearby Interstate 24 as families head to the Tennessee River, the Gulf Coast, the Great Smoky Mountains and other popular holiday destinations.
AAA says many travelers are adjusting their vacation plans to help offset higher travel costs while still keeping family traditions alive.
“For many families, traveling for Independence Day isn’t just a trip, it’s a tradition,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Vacations are one category where consumers are still willing to spend, even if that means cutting back on something else.”
According to AAA, many Georgians are saving money by taking shorter vacations, choosing destinations closer to home, comparing the costs of driving and flying, and reducing spending on dining and souvenirs.
In addition to the more than 2.14 million Georgians expected to travel by car, nearly 164,000 are projected to fly.
With more holiday travelers expected on the roads, AAA encourages motorists to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, check their vehicles before leaving home, avoid distracted driving, buckle up and never drive impaired.
The record-setting forecast means residents and visitors alike should expect heavier-than-normal traffic throughout Walker County and the surrounding Northwest Georgia region during the Independence Day holiday.