FORT WAYNE, Ind. (Indiana's NewsCenter) - Memorial Day is the traditional beginning to the summer driving season, and if you are traveling this Memorial Day weekend, you are not alone. In fact you'll be sharing the road with some 32.4 million others.

That's the number AAA estimates will be traveling at least 50 miles from their home during the upcoming weekend. Gas prices are hovering just below the $2.50 per gallon mark. That's a marked improvement over this time last year. Consumers we talked with Thursday say gas prices are not a factor in holiday travel plans.

Akim Salawou of Fort Wayne says, “I'm not traveling, I’m definitely going to work because this is money. They say they are going to pay me more money if I work that day so I'm going to work that day.”

Jessie Steury from Auburn, Ind. says, “I wasn't planning on going anywhere anyway so it doesn't affect me.”

Carol Anne McMillen of Fort Wayne says, “It's the cheapest gas in the world. You go to Europe, it's quadruple that. Hey, we're OK.”

Not only are gas prices lower this year, but travelers in the Midwest should enjoy good weather and pleasant driving conditions this weekend.

Also out on the road? An increased number of Indiana State Troopers to ensure that you get to your destinations safely and make sure you are buckled up, as troopers will be on the lookout for unrestrained motorists.

(© Copyright 2009 Indiana's NewsCenter. All Rights Reserved.)

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