? Lower gas prices and the suspension of construction projects could mean smooth sailing for New Jersey travelers this holiday weekend.

The Department of Transportation is suspending all construction projects through Tuesday, which should ease some congestion. Gas prices are still high, but down from this summer?s brutal average. Now, a gallon of regular runs about $3.51 on the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway.

Those looking to travel around the Edison area also have a few options for a pleasant getaway. Valley Forge, Pennsylvania isn?t too much of a drive and offers the National Historical Park and Longwood Gardens. Gloucester, Massachusetts is another option with its Seven Seas Whale Watch.

And if residents don?t want to drive for their getaways, NJ Transit trains are running on their regular weekend schedule until the holiday schedule kicks in Monday. Don?t forget to check Amtrak either; they?re offering some great deals, including $49 rides to Boston and D.C.

But some New Jersey residents who chose to get on the road on the eve of Labor Day week were surprised to face some traffic, with the rising gas prices.

"There's a lot of traffic out there on the road,? says a driver, Kathy Winowski. ?Seems to be a lot of people traveling this weekend. I guess they have the money."

Although AAA predicts a slight decrease in travel this year, more than 800,000 people are still expected to hit the road on Labor Day.

"People want to go on vacation for the long weekend; I'm not surprised,? says Jason Carucci, who was driving back home from a family vacation.

Click here for information on holiday traffic