The Fourth of July holiday always sparks travel among Americans, but Triple A expects a record 40 million people to hit the roads and skies this weekend.

"It looks as though this 4th of July in particular may be busiest holiday weekend we've ever seen," Mike Bie of Triple A Wisconsin says. Triple A expects to see more Americans than ever clogging the nation's streets and skies.

"Of the 40 million people projected to travel, 84 percent will be doing so by motor vehicle," Bie says.

"I have seen an increase in traffic especially the Badger interchange, which is where I-90, 94 come together, traffic has slowed down there a great deal," Sgt. Candy Konz of the Wisconsin State Patrol says.

Wisconsin's average gas price is $2.30. That's down from a record $2.34 in April.
Bie says, "Some folks might choose to stay closer to home because of high gas prices, but they don't keep people at home." And no matter where Americans go, more than 75 million of them plan to catch fireworks
.
"Everyone wants their fireworks this time of year," Tanya Olson, a fireworks vender, says. The American Pyrotechnics Association says use of backyard fireworks has more than tripled the last 15 years. "We got some power snaps, remember those from growing up," customer Molly Wowk says.

Unlike millions of others hitting the road, Molly Wowk says a neighborhood celebration is keeping her family at home for America's birthday. Meantime, the Wisconsin state patrol will try to keep this holiday a happy one.

"We have every available trooper working this weekend," Sgt. Konz reminds drivers.
All to drive motorists to move safely. "Allow yourself enough time to get to your destination; don't cut it close," Sgt. Konz says.

Bie adds, "Slow down, wear safety belts, don't drink and drive."

Triple A also reports that hotel prices up slightly, but car rental rates are up more than 12 percent.