Salem urges public transit use as Halloween crowds surge

In Salem, Massachusetts, the city is experiencing a surge in tourist traffic as Halloween approaches, leading to significant congestion and parking challenges. Residents have reported that navigating the city during October has become increasingly stressful, with comparisons made to the heavy traffic seen during Mardi Gras. The influx of visitors has resulted in gridlock, making it difficult for locals to travel to and from surrounding towns. Mayor Dominic Pangallo has urged tourists to utilize public transit options to alleviate the strain on the city’s infrastructure. With only about 4,000 public parking spaces available, the city can see upwards of 65,000 visitors on weekends, and this number can exceed 100,000 as Halloween nears. The mayor emphasized the economic benefits of tourism, which contributes approximately $1.3 billion to the North Shore region and supports thousands of jobs. However, the lack of direct highway access to Salem complicates travel for both residents and visitors, further exacerbating the traffic situation. Local businesses are feeling the impact as well, with some residents expressing frustration over the traffic flow and parking shortages. As the Halloween season progresses, the city continues to encourage the use of public transportation to help manage the overwhelming number of visitors and ensure a smoother experience for everyone involved.