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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — "Plan ahead."
That's the advice from Massachusetts transportation and public safety officials as we head into one of the busiest times of the year for the roads, skies, and rails. They're offering predictions to help travelers keep the stress to a minimum.
Newly-appointed Transportation secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt says the travel rush will start to ramp up Monday afternoon, and Tuesday will be the busiest travel day before the Thanksgiving holiday on the roads.
"We wouldn't be surprised to see major congestion on I-93, I-95, and especially the Massachusetts Turnpike at any point during the day," Tibbits-Nutt told reporters at a press conference Friday. As families head home, Sunday is also expected to see massive crowds of travelers.
In a bid to get some travelers off the roads and onto the rails, the MBTA is bringing down prices. General Manager Philip Eng says riders can purchase a $10 pass for unlimited weekend trips on the commuter rail.
"You can purchase that on Thanksgiving Day and use it for four days — that Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday. That's a fantastic way to get around," Eng said.
State police are also asking travelers to consider alternate modes of transport. They'll be increasing patrols in the weeks ahead to look for aggressive, distracted, and under-the-influence drivers.
Extra staff will be on hand at Boston Logan International Airport, where authorities are asking passengers to allow extra time for travel and getting through security
AAA predicts over 55 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home for Thanksgiving.
For all the latest traffic updates, listen to WBZ NewsRadio live for Traffic and Weather Together on the 3s:
WBZ NewsRadio's Kendall Buhl (@WBZKendall) reports:
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