Atlanta Traffic
Atlanta Traffic

You’ve been warned: The worst times to drive this Fourth of July holiday week

AJC reporter David Wickert asked readers how they would solve Atlanta's traffic mess if given a magic wand. Most who responded said mass transit needs to be expanded, not just to outlying counties but also throughout the state. One reader was quite blunt with her solution: "Get your butt on a bus." More than a few people would create tunnels so drivers who don't need to stop in Atlanta can avoid the area. One reader would better enforce the HOT lanes. Two words: "Ziplines everywhere!"
By Fiza Pirani
July 3, 2019

While there are rarely “good” times to be on Atlanta roads, holiday traffic is sure to create some extra congestion around town.

This Fourth of July, according to the American Automobile Association, nearly 49 million Americans have getaway plans.

» RELATED: Where to celebrate July 4th in metro Atlanta without crowds

The overall travel volume is expected to rise 4.1% over last year, with an additional 1.9 million more travelers hitting the road.

A huge chunk (41.4 million) of all travelers will be driving to their Independence Day destinations.

According to transportation analytics firm INRIX, commutes could be four times slower than normal during the holiday period, with Wednesday, July 3 afternoon being the worst day and time for road travel for most American cities.

In Atlanta, however, the absolute worst time to travel is Friday, July 5 between 5-7 p.m. According to INRIX, Atlanta commuters should expect to face delays as much as 2.5 times the normal commute.

Read the full AAA news release at newsroom.aaa.com.

More Fourth of July coverage from AJC:

About the Author

Fiza Pirani is an Atlanta-based freelance writer and editor.

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