SEATTLE, Wash. — Seattle is expected to be one of the busiest places in the country this Labor Day weekend, with AAA booking data ranking the Emerald City as the top domestic destination for holiday travel.
The influx of visitors, combined with local residents heading out of town, is expected to create significant traffic congestion across Western Washington.
“We’re kind of in a unique situation in Seattle where we are not only a destination in and of itself with access to waterfront living and amenities and great food, but also it’s the biggest destination for Alaska cruising, which is still one of the most popular travel activities right now,” Kyle Hayes, product marketing manager of travel and roadside at AAA Washington, said.
According to INRIX projections, some of the region’s busiest routes could see major delays during the holiday weekend. Drivers traveling on I-90 between Seattle and Ellensburg could experience travel times that are 120% longer than normal.
Other roads expected to see heavy congestion include:
• U.S. 2 near Stevens Pass
• I-5 near the Canadian border
• I-5 between Lacey and Tacoma
AAA Washington recommends travelers leave before noon on Thursday or Friday to avoid the worst delays.
“Definitely try to get out before noon on Thursday and Friday,” Hayes said. “If you don’t make it before noon, maybe wait till the next morning and see if you’ve got a little bit of window to leave early.”
Before hitting the road, AAA Washington also encourages drivers to make sure their vehicles are ready for the trip by checking their battery, tires, and ensuring their oil has been checked or changed recently.
In addition to crowded roads, travelers can expect increased law enforcement patrols throughout the holiday weekend.
“The concerns we have are obviously people speeding, not driving safely, and driving while they’re impaired,” King County Washington State Patrol Trooper Rick Johnson said.
State Patrol data from last Labor Day weekend highlights those concerns. In King County alone, troopers arrested 27 people for suspected impairment and investigated 115 crashes during the holiday period.
Johnson said drivers can help keep roads safe by planning ahead and making responsible choices.
“We just want people to make good decisions. There are so many ways to get around these days. If you are going to choose to drink, just plan a safe way home,” Johnson said.
With Seattle expected to be a major destination and thousands of travelers taking to the roads, transportation officials are urging drivers to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and prioritize safety throughout the Labor Day weekend.