What you need to know before you head out the door for the holidays

With just days until Thanksgiving, New York City is in the middle of several gridlock days as commuters hit the road to kick off the holiday season.

News 12 Staff

Nov 22, 2022, 10:33 AM

Updated 692 days ago

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With just days until Thanksgiving, New York City is in the middle of several gridlock days as commuters hit the road to kick off the holiday season.
The first thing to know before driving is that there's going to be a lot of traffic due to the holiday, so hit the road early. After a few years of socially distancing, neighbors are eager to see their friends and family this holiday season.
AAA estimates that about over 54 million people will be traveling 50 miles more from home this Thanksgiving. They also believe that more people will be hitting the road with 49 million people driving to their destinations, which is a .4% increase from last year.
The city has listed Tuesday as a gridlock day along with tomorrow, Wednesday Nov. 23, next Wednesday Nov. 30, followed by several days within the first two weeks of December.
For those planning on flying, head to the airport early as well. Air travel is up 8% over last year so it might take a little longer to get checked in.
Gov. Kathy Hochul has increased state police patrol to ensure everyone is staying safe on the roads. The traffic safety campaign lasts from this Wednesday to Monday.
Starting Wednesday at 6 a.m., lane closures will be suspended and road work won't pick back up until Monday, Nov. 28.
State troopers will also be increasing patrols to look out for drunk, speeding and distracted drivers.