Many Atlantans Traveling for Labor Day Weekend

That’s a high not seen in the Peach State since Labor Day 2008.An audio version of this story.

Recent economic indicators appear to be responsible for this rise in travel.

“We have ready numerous reports about the housing market coming back, consumer sentiment is at its highest that it’s been in almost six years.  Consumer spending is also up.  So, all these factors combined, we think, is leading to more people traveling,” says AAA spokeswoman Jessica Brady.

Atlanta resident Camilla Bejarano is among those leaving the state.  She’s going to New Orleans with five of her friends.  

“I think that we’ll know the city, party, I think, yes….and relax. That is the idea.”

Another Atlantan, Liz…..who didn’t want to give her last name……is taking part in a family reunion at Lake Hiawassee, NC.

“Boat-riding, grilling, Bocci balling.  Just the normal, fun stuff.”

However, others will be staying put.

“I’m actually good with not going out on holidays, ’cause it’s less crowded.  We usually go when everyone else stays,” says Allison Auerbach of Decatur.

Many of those who are staying in town say there’s plenty going on throughout town, like the Decatur Book Festival and Dragon Con.

“I’m such a geek, I’ve got to put on a costume and do something for that parade….yeah,” says Laura Bendoly, of Atlanta.

Most of Georgia’s vacationers, more than 805,000 will be driving to their holiday destination.

That means traffic will be thick on highways and roadways throughout the metro Atlanta area on Friday and Monday.

“Leave a little bit earlier or quite a bit earlier, if you can.  The earlier you leave, the less traffic you’re going to run into,” says Brady.

Good news for commuters……AAA reports gas prices are about 20-cents less than they were at this time last year.