Previously reported in this blog was the impact that this summer's heat wave and subsequent drought have had on the U.S. infrastructure. Some highways have even begun to expand beyond their design limits and "pop up," creating hazardous speed bumps. Even so, the American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that thirty three million Americans will travel 50 miles or more, a 2.9 percent increase from last year.
That is the highest level of travel reported for the holiday weekend since the beginning of the recession, back in 2007, according to the Associated Press.
The motorist assistance and travel company found that 85 percent of travelers plan to drive to their destination and families are expecting to pay $749, up from $702 last year.
The increased travel is taking place even with gas prices averaging $3.72 a gallon, which is 40 cents higher than April. Hotel costs are also expected to be 4 to 6 percent higher than this time last year, AAA reported.
"In the absence of strong economic growth that might fuel a significant boost in travel volume, it is an encouraging sign that Americans continue to prioritize travel," Bill Sutherland, vice president of AAA Travel Services said in a statement. "Travel is still within America's discretionary spending budget."
With the possible boom of travelers on the road for Labor Day weekend, businesses such as hotels and gas stations should ensure that they are prepared for the influx of customers. All types of companies and organizations, though, should ensure that they have a proper business continuity plan in place for times of high and low sales.
As the economy attempts to fully recover, it's important for enterprises to do a business impact analysis from time to time, to best calculate what maneuvers need to be taken to ensure the company's success.