7/25/2008
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Idaho State Police to increase patrols next week in I-84 work zone between Nampa and Meridian
BOISE - State police will target work zone speeders and aggressive drivers in the I-84, Garrity to Meridian construction area beginning next week, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
For years, ITD and the Idaho State Police have warned motorists to slow down and pay attention when driving in work zones, where increased speeding fines and other penalties apply. Now the bark has some extra bite.
Penalties could be as high as $140 for speeding in that area. The basic fine for speeding is $75.
Patrols will be increased between the Eagle Interchange and Garrity Interchange, where work is under way to prepare the interstate for a third lane in each direction. Police will ticket aggressive drivers, tailgaters and speeders.
The ITD Office of Highway Operations and Safety reported this month that following too closely and driver inattentiveness were the top two contributing factors to Idaho work zone crashes in 2007.
"Motorists should drive defensively," said Highway Safety Manager Mary Hunter. "And remember that your best defense when driving is to wear your seatbelt."
Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and dial 5-1-1 or visit 511.idaho.gov for information on the state highway or interstate system.
"The number-one message we have for drivers is to slow down and pay attention," said Dave Jones, ITD District 3 Engineer. "Safety is our first priority in every construction project."