Business seminar could mean ‘largest traffic jams in Hartford’s history.’

Hartford commuters weary of major traffic jams may want to work from home next Wednesday.

That's because the nationally renowned "Get Motivated" Business Seminar, set to feature General Colin Powell, Mayor Rudy Giuliani, and former First Lady Laura Bush, will be held at 8 a.m. on Sept.9 at the XL Center.

The sold-out event is expected to draw nearly 19,000 ticket holders- all during morning rush hour, when over 75,000 regular commuters already are coming into the city.

State, city and downtown business officials are warning that the additional traffic influx has the potential to cause one of the largest traffic jams in Hartford's history.

People expecting to park downtown may find lots and garages already filled to capacity, officials said. This has been the case in every city where the event has been held, creating massive traffic back-ups in Pittsburgh, Albany and Buffalo.

Doors will open for the event at 6:45 a.m. and the seminar will end around 4:45 p.m. which means afternoon rush hour could be a nightmare as well.

To try and reduce delays, city and business officials are working with event promoters to provide the public with commuting options, including special shuttle bus parking lots on that day.

The corporate community is being urged to encourage staff to telecommute or to offer staggered work hours on that day so employees can avoid the morning and afternoon rush.

For more suggestions on how to handle Wednesday's traffic situation click here.