Houston Astros fans are already in the midst of playoff fever, with postseason tickets already on sale.

Finishing the season with a dominating 106-56 record (seven games ahead of the New York Yankees — but who's counting?), the team looks to the postseason with dominating pitching, slugging, and that what could be described as "this could be the year" vibe.

With that in mind, the team and the City of Houston are hosting a special pep rally dubbed Mayor’s Astros Playoff Rally on Friday, October 7 just outside City Hall at Hermann Square (901 Bagby St.).

The free event starts at 11 am, with the official rally starting at 12:30 pm. Fans can expect appearances — and hopefully, some fun smack talk (we kid). Lunch and refreshments will be available via onsite food trucks.

by Astros manager Dusty Baker (he's always great for a quote), Astros standout shortstop Jeremy Peña, outfielder Chas McCormick, general manager James Click, the always beloved mascot Orbit, the Coca-Cola Shooting Star, and of course, Mayor Sylvester Turner.

As rabid followers know, the first Astros playoff game is slated for Tuesday, October 11, with the opponent yet to be named between the Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners. Sports talking heads and serious fans are already buzzing about the new, 12-team format. Given the two teams' dominance in their respective divisions, a showdown between the 'Stros and Yankees seems likely.

Just one more reason to score those playoff tickets.

Summer travel season may be over, but that hasn't slowed thousands from packing George Bush Intercontinental Airport daily for domestic and international travel. Those travelers headed to Terminal D should expect some delays next week.

With current construction of the new international terminal underway, CenterPoint Energy will begin construction starting Monday, October 10, which will force temporary lane closures along North Terminal Road, the road that leads to Terminals C, D, and E.

These new lane closures will be in place for approximately four weeks, per a Houston Airports announcement.

Not surprisingly, Houston Airports estimates traffic congestion, specifically during afternoon peak travel times between 5 pm and 8 pm. This comes after well-documented construction delays have caused hours of wait time in traffic, with some travelers and locals getting out and walking to the terminal.

Travelers and those picking up travelers are advised to prepare for the inconvenience by reserving garage parking online, waiting in cellphone lots for arriving passengers, and adding an extra hour into for peak travel times arrivals. Find a complete list of travel recommendations here.

Red = closed to vehicles approaching Terminal D beginning October 10.

Police officers will also be on-site as part of the CenterPoint traffic control plan, per a press release.

Houston Airports stresses in press materials that it utilized successful traffic simulations, extensive roadway modeling, and real-time testing days before the project began.

This international terminal construction, part of the IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program, started in 2015 and is slated to be compelted by late 2024. Plans call for the expansion of the Mickey Leland International Terminal (MLIT) with a new International Central Processor.

Additionally, a new concourse and a fully renovated Terminal D will allow passengers to relax in the several lounges and enjoy new dining options. As CultureMap previously reported, improvements even include art projects to create a soothing space.