Heavy traffic expected ahead of 4th of July

AAA reports that this year’s 4th of July traffic will break records, predicting that 41.4 million Americans will be hitting the road.

The automobile association says that number is up more than 4.3% from last year. Not only are 41.4 million people predicted to be traveling by car for the holiday, but a reported 3.96 million people will be taking to the skies.

The worst time for travel is expected to be on Wednesday, July 3 from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Falling gas prices are motivating drivers to travel. Gas prices on average are 17 cents cheaper than Memorial Day weekend. (Southern Colorado gas prices)

The Colorado Department of Transportation is reminding drivers to anticipate heavier than normal traffic on mountain highways and other major roadways.

All CDOT construction and maintenance projects will be suspended by noon on Wednesday to help minimize traffic impacts. Projects are permitted to resume on Monday, July 8.

For a live traffic map click here.