> Memorial Day Travel: Tampa Bay area braces for busy weekend on roads, in the air and on the water
Memorial Day Travel: Tampa Bay area braces for busy weekend on roads, in the air and on the water
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As Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, Florida officials are preparing for one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. From highways to airports and waterways, millions of Floridians are expected to be on the move and authorities are ramping up efforts to keep them safe.
More than 2 million Floridians are expected to drive more than 50 miles over the long weekend. The Florida Highway Patrol is increasing patrols to monitor for speeding, impaired driving, and aggressive behavior behind the wheel.
“We definitely want people to be patient on the roadways and understand that everyone is trying to get to their destination together,” said Lt. Jim Beauford with FHP. “Patience is going to get you where you are going.”
Drivers are urged to check vehicle maintenance, get plenty of rest, and build extra time into their schedules. Beauford also recommends traveling during off-peak hours, either early morning or late at night to avoid traffic congestion.
“Remember that the right lane is for driving, and the left lane is for passing,” he said. “Be courteous and let other people by.”
Tampa International Airport (TPA) is preparing for about 300,000 travelers between Friday and Monday — and averaging 75,000 passengers in the summer each day.
Airport officials say the airport is ready for an influx in passengers, but warn that delays at other airports could have an impact on your travel.
“We are very confident that our air traffic control tower here is fully staffed and ready to handle the summer travel,,” said TPA spokesperson Emily Nipps.
Travelers are encouraged to arrive two hours before domestic flights and even earlier for international one. Booking airport parking in advance is also strongly advised.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and local agencies are also stepping up patrols on popular waterways for what they call one of the busiest boating weekends of the year.
While Florida is a year-round boating state, agencies anticipate even more boat travel during Memorial Day Weekend, and often less experienced boaters.