Busiest Thanksgiving Season Ever: Commuters Face Challenges
Travel Chaos in the Capital Region
Commuters in the Capital Region are bracing themselves for one of the busiest Thanksgiving seasons ever, with AAA predicting a record-breaking 80 million travelers. For many, this means navigating busy roads and rails to reach their destinations.
Road Warriors
For some, the roads are the only way to travel. Jamie Vaughn, who is heading to Vermont with her family, including their 3-year-old labradoodle Oliver, has found the journey to be relatively smooth so far. "We brought our boys with us, so traveling by car was our only option. We didn’t want to throw them in the plane," she said.
Rail Woes
Not everyone has been so fortunate. Ashley McIntire, who was heading to New York City, encountered issues with her noon train, which was cancelled without warning. "I asked someone and they were like, ‘Oh, your train is cancelled.’ They said they could try to get me on the next train if there was room," she said.
Silver Linings
Despite the challenges, McIntire is determined to make the most of her trip. "We’re going to go see a Broadway show tonight and we’re going to try to get a spot for the parade tomorrow, even though we’re apparently going to get rained out," she said.
Rail Success Stories
Not all rail travelers have had a negative experience. Jennifer Sweet, who took the train from Albany to Rochester, was thrilled with her decision to travel by rail. "For me to just go fly from Albany to Elmira was going to be $1,600. This is a round-trip for $80. Just to go to Rochester," she said.
Safety Tips
As the roads become increasingly busy, Pete Cichette from the Office of Emergency Management urges drivers to take extra caution. "I think that people think they can drive in snow, and then they get out in it and then realize they cannot. So, I think it’s really important to know when it may snow in your area and in the area you’re going to, and either go sooner, go later, or don’t go at all. But don’t drive in heavy snow," he said.
Conclusion
As the Thanksgiving season approaches, commuters in the Capital Region are facing a mix of challenges and opportunities. Whether by road or rail, there are steps that can be taken to ensure a safe and successful journey. By staying informed, planning ahead, and taking necessary precautions, travelers can make the most of their trip and enjoy the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many travelers are expected for the Thanksgiving season?
A: According to AAA, there will be around 80 million travelers this year.
Q: What are some tips for driving in the snow?
A: Pete Cichette from the Office of Emergency Management recommends knowing when it may snow in your area and in the area you’re going to, and either going sooner, going later, or not going at all. He also suggests avoiding driving in heavy snow.
Q: What are some alternatives to driving for Thanksgiving travelers?
A: For those who cannot or prefer not to drive, rail options such as Amtrak are available. Additionally, flying can be a viable option, but be prepared for higher prices during peak travel seasons.
