ALDOT preparing for one of the busiest travel weekends of the year

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – Memorial Day weekend is here and ALDOT says this is one of the three busiest travel days in the state.

And as ALDOT monitors it all from their traffic management center, there’s one word to describe what drivers need this weekend. Patience.

“On a daily basis, between 78,000 to 80,000 vehicles a day. So, we would say during a weekend like this, about a ten percent increase. So, maybe 90,000 vehicles,” James Gordon said.

And with those vehicles, gridlock is expected. For some, this will be their first time experiencing the Bayway blues. But for people who’ve navigated through it, they have some tips.

“Drive safely. Make sure you wear your seatbelt. Don’t speed. I know you want to get through with traffic since it’s really heavy, trying to get through really fast. But take your time and relax. Enjoy the weather. I’ve got my sunroof open and my windows down. Just listen to my music, cruising and enjoying my ride,” Soyna Dent said.

Another piece of advice. Pay attention to the tunnels—especially the Bankhead. While we were at the traffic center, one driver with a boat unfortunately suffered some damage.

But the biggest tip is to have a plan whether you leave early or later.

“Depending on the time of day you leave, whether you’re going to your vacation or leaving to go back home. You really just need to decide when you want to leave because you’re going to meet those people on the road,” Gordon said.

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