Tampa: AAA Warns Of Potential Record-Breaking Traffic Over July 4th

The fourth of July always represents a celebratory time: fireworks, cook-outs, boats, and summertime. However, in AAA's recent travel preview, they are preparing us for potential record-breaking traffic numbers this July 4th long weekend.

"AAA projects 50.7 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this Independence Day weekend*, setting a new record for the holiday," they state. The previous record-setting 4th of July travel was pre-pandemic in 2019. That weekend saw 49 million travelers.

Of the 50.7 million Americans projected to travel, AAA estimates that 43.2 million will travel by car. They also point out that a key component here could be the fact that gas prices have lowered. Last year at this time the average was $4.80 per gallon. Whereas this year, the national average is about $3.55.

AAA detailed their holiday traffic expectations for many of the major markets in the country. For Tampa, they believe peak congestion will be around 11 am on Tuesday (July 4), along the route of Tampa to Orlando. This typical 85-95 mile drive averages about an hour and 45 minutes door-to-door. Under the 2023 holiday projection, it is expected this route next week will take two hours and twenty-four minutes on average.

You can find AAA's forecast on the best and worst times to travel by car from Thursday, June 29, to Wednesday, July 5, about halfway down the page here. In short, on July 4th, the best time to drive is before 11 am or after 6 pm. The worst times will be from 12-3 pm.

"Travel demand has been steadily increasing since 2020, and this summer is poised to be one for the record books," AAA concludes. Leaving for car trips in the early morning or after 6 pm will help travelers avoid heavy congestion.

Furthermore, carpooling, walking where applicable, and leveraging all travel apps available will help you follow local traffic patterns and seek alternate routes so that you don't spend your July 4th stuck in potentially record-breaking traffic.

The fastest-growing sport in America has made its mark on Southwest Florida. There are now a few exciting new places to play Pickleball in the Tampa region. Perhaps you have noticed your local athletic center turning part of their basketball gym into a Pickleball court. Even Lebron James is onboard, buying into a major league team in late 2022.

Though the sport has been around since 1965, it’s more recently gained major popularity here in Tampa. There are local Facebook groups that share ideas and enthusiasm for the sport. There is also a community named, The Tampa Pickleball Crew that describes themselves as, "a socializing, community, and friendly competition come together through pickleball." This crew is also pioneering an effort to open a new indoor facility in Ybor City this spring. Whether you are looking to learn the game, play competitively or swing a paddle while sipping a beer, Massachusetts now has options to meet your Pickleball curiosity.

Known for being a recreational sport landmark (where numerous MLB baseball players trained), there are also six pickleball courts at Cuscaden Park. Each are dedicated to Pickleball with permanent lines and nets. They are free to use and open from sunrise to sunset.

Hillsborough Community College (HCC) has its own tennis and pickleball facility. Though a membership is required to play, there are eight courts available and classes you can register for.

Home to the Northlakes Recreation Center, there are eight outdoor courts here in addition to six tennis courts and two racquet ball courts. There’s something for everyone here, with walking trails and lacrosse fields on the grounds. Bring the whole family!

Reservations are available at 25-acre park located just north of the University of Tampa and across the Hillsborough River. There are two outdoor courts in close proximity to public restrooms and water.

The Tampa Bay Times has reported Ybor City’s Gas Worx will open the indoor pickleball courts this spring. It is in part thanks to the Tampa Pickleball Crew, who are leading the efforts. The 28,000-square-foot club will house seven courts. The plan allows for there to be both open times and court reservation options that can be secured via an app.

These four outdoor hard courts are dedicated to Pickleball. There is a full gym schedule dedicated to the game, four days a week. In close proximately to the lake and pool, this facility is open to the public and does not require a membership fee.

Described as an active community, this Oldsmar club has 12 outdoor courts available for Pickleball. The game is offered to members of all ages. There are tournaments, clinics, and social events held throughout the year.

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