Prime Outlets has a plan to ease holiday shopping gridlock

WILLIAMSBURG -- Shoppers are taking advantage of early deals, not only saving money but the traffic hassle on Black Friday.

The parking lots at Prime Outlets Williamsburg were packed Wednesday as people looked for bargains to stretch their holday dollars.

Most say they're shopping early to avoid the crowds and traffic jams at the shopping center.

This year, Prime Outlets has a plan to relieve congestion for shoppers taking part in the Midnight Madness Pajama Jam.

Starting at 11:00 p.m. Thursday, 15 buses will shuttle shoppers from two park-and-ride locations a few miles away -- Warhill High School and the James City County Sports Complex.  The shuttle is free.

Organizers hope the new service will tempt even more people to experience the event and take advantage of the deals.