As travelers get ready for fireworks, parades and barbecues, the Pennsylvania Turnpike is preparing for increased holiday travel.

The PA Turnpike projects more than 5.62 million motorists will be traveling the turnpike from Friday, June 28 through Sunday, July 7. This is 3% more than last year’s traffic tally during the same 10-day holiday period last year.

The daily traffic projected for the holiday period systemwide are: Wednesday, July 3, 670,000; Thursday, July 4, 380,000; Friday, July 5, 570,000; Saturday, July 6, 510,000, and Sunday, July 7, 520,000

The turnpike commission predicts the total from June 28-July 7 will be 5,620,000.

The PA Turnpike will be doing its part to help keep vehicles moving. The PA Turnpike will increase the number of GEICO Safety Patrol safety teams throughout the system on the busiest days to assure travelers get to their destinations safely.

That means responding to travelers in need of assistance as well as increased vigilance regarding illegal or unsafe behaviors on the roadway. All roadway construction and maintenance projects will be suspended during this time.

With law enforcement data showing Independence Day being among the most dangerous times of the year on the nation’s roads due to heavy traffic and distracted and impaired driving, Pennsylvania State Police Troop T will have extra patrols during the holiday period to ensure drivers are following the posted speed limits, allowing proper distance between other vehicles and maintaining general respect for other motorists and driving conditions.

While construction work will be halted during the holiday period, the PA Turnpike’s commitment to work zone safety is an everyday mission. Patrons at five of our service plazas - Oakmont, North Somerset,?Highspire, King of Prussia, Allentown - will be encouraged to “take a seat” at our Go Orange table to learn more about work zone safety as well as take the pledge to drive safely in work zones and support our PA Turnpike workers.