Department of Safety Internet - THP KICKS OFF SUMMER-LONG ENFORCEMENT INITIATIVES

Nashville, Tennessee --- The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) is set to kick-off two special enforcement campaigns aimed at areas known for dangerous driving. Thanks to funding provided through the Governor’s Highway Safety Office (GHSO), Troopers will be cracking down on drivers who break the law on a deadly stretch of U.S. Highway 129 in Blount County known as “Deals Gap,” as well as in the Shady Valley area of Johnson County.

“A similar initiative conducted along Deals Gap last year resulted in a decrease in crashes,” said Department of Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell. “Rigorous enforcement programs are effective, and our goal is always to protect the motoring public and save lives.”

During the four months Troopers participated in the Deals Gap/Blount County Enforcement Initiative, the calls for UT Lifestar helicopters (air medical transport) dropped 99 percent. The same campaign will be conducted this year using a $75,000 grant from GHSO.

“The Governor’s Highway Safety Office is happy to once again partner with the Tennessee Highway Patrol,” stated GHSO Director Kendell Poole. “These funds will allow Troopers to work extra hours on the weekends, and this increased enforcement will undoubtedly help reduce bodily injury crashes and ultimately save lives.”

THP Colonel Mike Walker hopes a similar enforcement campaign in the Shady Valley area of Johnson County will produce the same results. “We have received a number of complaints from residents about reckless motorcycle riding in both of these areas,” stated Col. Walker. “Troopers will be out in force looking for any vehicle that violates the law and makes the roadway unsafe. We applaud the Governor’s Highway Safety Office for providing the grant money to enable THP to step up enforcement and deter dangerous activities.”

A $36,000 grant from the GHSO will be utilized to fund overtime for Troopers each weekend during the Johnson County enforcement initiative.

The Tennessee Department of Safety’s mission is (www.tennessee.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.