AAA projects 2.2 hike in holiday travel

AAA this morning projected a 2.2 percent increase in travel in this region over last year for the upcoming holiday season.

The projection for December 23 to January 2 is the second-largest increase projection of all census regions.

Decreasing gas prices are a reason behind the estimate. However, a shaky economy prevented the increase from being larger.

"The travel projections are based on economic drivers," said AAA Spokesman Dave Carlson. "Those are not particularly strong. In fact, we're calling them 'weak positives' with a sprinkle of pessimism. Nevertheless, there should be enough fuel in the tank to drive a modest increase in traffic volume this year."

Do you plan to travel more than 50 miles this holiday season and how much is the economy a factor in your decision?