Today is historically one of the busiest travel days of the year. KUT News has compiled a list of things you need to know before you hit the roads... or skies.
1. Yes, It May be Busy
AAA Texas estimates that about 3 million people in Texas will hit the road for Thanksgiving—that's up about 1.6 percent from last year.
2. It May Cost You Less to Fill Up
The good news for those travelers is that gas prices across the state continue to fall. The statewide average price for a gallon of unleaded is $3.16. Prices in Austin are slightly higher at $3.19.
Click here to find gas prices near you.
3. You'll Probably See Officers Out
The Austin Police Department and the Department of Public Safety will have more officers on the roads over the next few days. They’ll be targeting speeders and drunk drivers.
“All members of the department from the chief, on down to the youngest rookie, all detectives, all members of this department that wear a badge will work traffic enforcement," APD Chief Art Acevedo says.
4. Warnings Aren't Just for Drivers
Officers will also keep an eye out for intoxicated pedestrians. There have been 68 traffic fatalities in Austin this year—the most in the city's history. Several of the pedestrians killed this year were publicly intoxicated.
“If we let somebody walk away that we know is intoxicated, we know that person could likely make a bad choice, walk out in front of a car and end up on that list," APD Officer Justin Newsom says.
Because of the high number of traffic deaths this year, Acevedo says there will be fewer warnings and more tickets issued.
5. Yes, it May Also be Busy at the Airport
Officials at Austin-Bergstrom International airport are asking passengers to arrive two hours before their flight. An extra, temporary security checkpoint is open to help reduce wait times.
Click herefor more information on getting through ABIA quickly.
6. Weather Elsewhere Could Cause Delays
The National Weather Service has issued a Dense Fog Advisory for the Chicago area until noon. Flights headed in and out of the area may be delayed.
Click here to find real-time arrival and departure information from ABIA (Click on "Flight Arrivals" or "Flight Departures" at the top of the page).
