Specialists present outlook on Independence Day journey

UPPER MICHIGAN. (WLUC) – This Independence Day will mark 1 / 4 of a millennium for the reason that adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

In Michigan, AAA Spokeswoman Adrienne Woodland says greater than 2.5 million individuals are anticipated to journey 50 miles or extra across the vacation.

“For many families traveling for Independence Day isn’t just a trip, it’s a tradition,” Woodland stated. “And so, vacations are one category where consumers are still willing to spend. And that’s why we’re seeing these numbers for Independence Day travel this year.”

Woodland encourages drivers to apply warning behind the wheel, buckle up and by no means drive impaired. She says drivers will nonetheless be coping with elevated fuel costs and recommends AAA’s cell app to verify fuel costs alongside their route.

“Last year on the Fourth of July in Michigan, it was about $3.17 a gallon for regular unleaded, so prices are much higher, with the average at about $4.18 currently,” Woodland stated.

Mackinac Bridge Director Kim Nowack says the Bridge Authority expects vital visitors across the fourth, with predominantly northbound visitors within the days prior, anticipated to peak on Thursday with a complete of 25,000 automobiles. That visitors will then flip instructions within the days following the vacation.

To keep away from backups, Nowack says the timing of your bridge transit is essential.

“They can avoid the peak hours,” Nowack stated. “So, if they come through here before 10 in the morning or after 5 in the evening, that’s avoiding the peak hours and they won’t, more likely, they won’t get a backup.”

Nowack says if climate permits, the Mackinac Bridge might be flying the U.S. Flag on the Fourth of July.

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