Chicago’s airports and roadways are gearing up for a busy Labor Day weekend as travelers prepare to celebrate the unofficial end of summer.
Coming off one of the busiest summers in Chicago aviation history, O’Hare and Midway Airports are preparing for nearly 1.8 million travelers during the holiday weekend, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation.
Friday is expected to be the busiest day for both airports with nearly 285,000 passengers traveling through O’Hare and 58,000 going through Midway, according to a press release from the CDA.
“Being the home of one of the world’s busiest and most prominent aviation systems, Chicago always stands ready to serve all passengers at our airports,” CDA Commissioner Michael McMurray said. “After yet another wonderful summer in our city, we can’t wait to assist all who will be arriving and departing O’Hare and Midway this weekend.”
On the road, the Illinois Tollway anticipates nearly 8.2 million vehicles to travel through the unofficial end of summer.
The heaviest road traffic is also expected Friday when nearly two million vehicles are expected to use the 294-mile tollway system, according to the Illinois Tollway. Drivers are urged to slow down and keep a safe distance as they navigate through construction on the tollway.
“Summer travel is especially robust this year, and we look forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to see firsthand how we’re transforming Chicago into the safest, most affordable big city in America,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said in a statement. “This Labor Day weekend, we welcome all to our city — the cradle of the American labor movement — as summer gives way to fall.”