Spike in Memorial Day Travel to Coachella Valley expected as pandemic restrictions relax – KESQ
Travel is expected to make a significant jump this holiday weekend as millions of Americans head out following some of the most stringent pandemic restrictions being relaxed.
On Friday several flights landed at Palm Springs International Airport as people from all over the country descended onto the valley.
“I’m meeting friends, we got a house and we have a pool and of course Palm Springs is gorgeous,” said Portland resident, Michael Tony.
The valley became a home away from home for several residents making the drive from different parts of Southern California.
“Every year we come out for Memorial Day weekend and we go to a timeshare in Indio,” Ontario resident, Berta Correa said. “We just enjoy it, we like the heat and we always enjoy coming out here during this time.”
Others came in from out-of-state to soak in the sunshine.
“I am on a girls and gays trip with some of my best friends. All the men had to stay home unless they’re gay and we’re just going to have fun. We’re calling it a looks trip where we’re just dressing up and being ridiculous,” Portland resident, Rachel Bills said.
On Friday PSI looked much busier than what we’ve observed in a while. As California rolls back on some of its most stringent pandemic guidelines, and more vaccines are administered, people were ready to get out and have some fun.
“I’m definitely going to meet up with some friends now that I’m vaccinated. I get to see people that I haven’t seen in about 18 months so that’s very exciting,” said Tony.
Projections for Memorial Day weekend 2021 by AAA predicted a 64 percent increase in travel among Southern California residents, which amounted to 2.9 million people. A majority of travelers were expected to get to their destinations by a vehicle.
“Freeways all across Southern California will be more crowded, especially the hours between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. as people who are heading out of town mixed with the commuters heading home from work. Also it’s important to keep in mind that Monday afternoon is typically a very heavy day on the roads as well,” said AAA spokesperson, Doug Shupe.
A look at the latest TSA traveler throughput numbers for Thursday, May 27 rose nearly six times compared to the same date in 2020.