Labor Day Weekend Traffic Forecast for Massachusetts Roads

How can it already be Labor Day weekend? It feels like Memorial Day was just yesterday.

Summer flew by, and for many on the SouthCoast, it was a season defined by traffic headaches.

From the never-ending I-195 construction near White's of Westport to the major new project underway on the New Bedford overpass, SouthCoast traffic has taken center stage – and it's not easing up at all for Labor Day weekend.

What to Expect on Massachusetts Roads

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has issued its Labor Day travel forecast, and it's not promising. If you plan to travel to coastal areas or Cape Cod, expect delays and congestion starting Friday and lasting beyond the weekend.

In fact, the worst day of the stretch may not be Friday or Monday but Tuesday, when MassDOT forecasts virtually no good time to drive. The traffic graphic shows nothing but red on Tuesday, with the red meaning major delays expected.

Best Times to Drive Labor Day Weekend in Massachusetts

If you’re looking for a smoother ride, your best bet is:

Late Saturday night (around 10 p.m.)
Early Sunday morning (around 6 a.m.)
Late Monday night (after 10 p.m.)

Outside of those windows, in the opinion of Mass DOT you should expect significant backups.

Should You Cancel Your Plans?

Not necessarily, but prepare for traffic, plan your drive times strategically, and pack an extra serving of patience. Consider alternate routes or delay your return trip if you can.

Michael Rock/Townsquare Media

You can also utilize the Mass 511 app and website, which gives you real time looks at traffic, including live cameras.

And remember: don’t hate the messenger.

The SouthCoast's 15 Worst Traffic Lights

We've all been stuck at some of the most annoying traffic lights on the SouthCoast. Gazelle compiled his list of the 15 worst ones in the bunch. Of course, safety is always more important than convenience, but that doesn't make these any less of a pain.

Gallery Credit: Gazelle