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Fourth of July travel could break records, cause delays on Utah roads

The article published on July 2, 2025, by Deseret News, titled "Fourth of July travel could break records, cause delays on Utah roads," provides a detailed overview of the anticipated surge in travel during the Independence Day holiday period in Utah and across the United States. Written by Hanna Seariac, the piece highlights projections from AAA (American Automobile Association) and other sources, emphasizing the potential for record-breaking travel numbers, significant traffic delays, and the associated challenges for travelers. It also offers practical advice for navigating the holiday rush, insights into travel trends, and specific information about road conditions and safety concerns in Utah. Below is an extensive summary of the article's content, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issues and recommendations discussed.

The central theme of the article is the unprecedented volume of travelers expected during the Fourth of July holiday in 2025, with AAA forecasting that nearly 71 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home between June 28 and July 7. This figure represents a 5% increase compared to 2024 and an 8% increase over 2019, the last pre-pandemic benchmark year. In Utah specifically, AAA predicts that over 800,000 residents will travel during this period, contributing to the national trend. The majority of these travelers—approximately 60.6 million nationwide—are expected to drive, marking a 4.8% increase in road trips compared to the previous year. Air travel is also projected to see a significant uptick, with 5.74 million Americans expected to fly, a 7% increase from 2024. Additionally, other modes of transportation, such as buses, cruises, and trains, are anticipated to see a combined 4.6 million travelers, reflecting a 9% growth over the prior year.

The article underscores the potential for significant delays on Utah roads due to the high volume of drivers. The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) has warned that popular holiday destinations, such as national parks, lakes, and mountain areas, will likely experience heavy traffic, particularly on key routes like Interstate 15, U.S. Highway 6, and state roads leading to recreational areas. UDOT spokesperson John Gleason noted that peak congestion is expected on July 3 and July 7, as many travelers depart for and return from their holiday destinations. To mitigate delays, UDOT plans to suspend most road construction projects during the holiday weekend, ensuring that lanes remain open wherever possible. However, some ongoing projects may still cause minor disruptions, and travelers are encouraged to check UDOT’s traffic app or website for real-time updates on road conditions and closures.

Beyond traffic concerns, the article delves into broader travel trends influencing the holiday surge. One key factor is the growing preference for domestic travel, driven by economic considerations and a desire for accessible, family-friendly destinations. Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, commented that Americans are increasingly opting for road trips and shorter flights to nearby locations, a trend that aligns with the significant increase in car travel. Popular domestic destinations for 2025 include Orlando, Anaheim, Seattle, and various national parks, many of which are within driving distance for Utah residents. Internationally, cities like London, Paris, and Vancouver are seeing high demand, partly due to major events such as the Summer Olympics in Paris, which coincide with the holiday travel window.

Air travel challenges are another focal point of the article. With nearly 6 million Americans expected to fly, airports across the country, including Salt Lake City International Airport, are bracing for record crowds. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates screening over 3 million passengers on peak days, potentially leading to long wait times at security checkpoints. To address this, TSA has advised travelers to arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. Additionally, the agency recommends enrolling in programs like TSA PreCheck to expedite the screening process. The article also notes that airfare prices for the holiday period are up by approximately 2% compared to 2024, adding to the financial burden for travelers.

The piece also touches on economic factors influencing travel behavior. Despite rising costs for gas, airfare, and accommodations, consumer confidence appears to remain strong, as evidenced by the record-breaking travel projections. AAA data indicates that the average price of gas in Utah as of early July 2025 is around $3.50 per gallon, slightly higher than the national average but still within a range that has not deterred road trippers. Hotel rates and car rental prices have also increased, yet demand for travel continues to grow, reflecting a post-pandemic eagerness to celebrate holidays with family and friends.

Safety concerns are a significant theme in the article, particularly for those traveling by car. With millions of drivers on the road, the risk of accidents and breakdowns rises. AAA expects to respond to over 360,000 roadside assistance calls nationwide during the holiday period, with common issues including flat tires, dead batteries, and lockouts. To minimize risks, the organization advises drivers to ensure their vehicles are in good condition before embarking on trips, checking tires, brakes, and fluid levels. Additionally, UDOT and local law enforcement agencies are ramping up patrols to address speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving, which historically spike during holiday weekends. The article cites a sobering statistic from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), noting that over 500 people died in crashes during the Fourth of July holiday period in recent years, with alcohol impairment being a leading factor.

For Utahns planning to travel, the article offers several practical tips to navigate the holiday rush. First, it recommends avoiding peak travel times by departing early in the morning or late in the evening on July 3 and returning on off-peak days if possible. Travelers are also encouraged to plan alternate routes in case of unexpected delays and to pack emergency supplies, such as water, snacks, and first-aid kits, in case of breakdowns or gridlock. For those flying out of Salt Lake City, pre-booking parking spots at the airport and checking flight statuses frequently are advised to avoid last-minute hassles.

The article also highlights the cultural significance of the Fourth of July as a driving force behind the travel surge. As one of the most celebrated holidays in the United States, Independence Day brings families and communities together for parades, fireworks, barbecues, and other festivities. In Utah, events such as the Freedom Festival in Provo, the Stadium of Fire concert, and various small-town celebrations draw large crowds, contributing to local traffic congestion. The desire to participate in these traditions, combined with the long weekend, fuels the motivation to travel despite the logistical challenges.

In conclusion, the Deseret News article paints a vivid picture of the 2025 Fourth of July travel landscape, emphasizing the record-breaking numbers of travelers, the strain on Utah’s roads and airports, and the broader trends shaping holiday behavior. It balances statistical data with actionable advice, ensuring readers are well-informed about what to expect and how to prepare. The piece serves as both a warning and a guide, acknowledging the excitement of the holiday while urging caution and planning to ensure safe and enjoyable travel experiences. By addressing traffic forecasts, safety concerns, economic factors, and cultural motivations, the article provides a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities surrounding Independence Day travel in Utah and beyond. This summary, spanning over 1,100 words, captures the depth and breadth of the original content, reflecting the complexity of the topic and the importance of preparedness during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

Read the Full deseret Article at:
[ https://www.deseret.com/utah/2025/07/02/fourth-of-july-travel-could-break-records-cause-delays-on-utah-roads/ ]