COURTESY OF THE RIVERSIDE POLICE DEPARTMENT
Riverside Police department was awarded an Illinois Department of Transportation Division of Traffic Safety (IDOT-
DTS) highway safety traffic enforcement grant for $31,707.60. This is a 46% increase from the 2013 award.
For the last few years the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has helped states implement traffic safety programs across the country to assist police agencies in conducting intensive, highly publicized campaigns of increased enforcement for speeding, impaired driving and safety belt laws.
This grant, the Sustained Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) runs October 1, 2014 through September 30, 2015. Officers conduct six special enforcement mobilizations during this period (mobilization follows a four week schedule beginning with public information and education and concludes with a traffic enforcement phase).
The goal of this grant is to reduce the overall number of traffic crashes and associated fatalities and serious injuries through enforcement of all traffic laws with special emphasis on speed, occupant restraint and impaired driving. Police also want to achieve increased use of safety belts, child safety seats and booster seats during day and evening hours.
This grant award also includes a partnership grant award of $15,000 for Riverside and North Riverside Police Departments. Riverside and North Riverside partnered to submit a separate phase of the grant for traffic safety, education and enforcement equipment for road side safety checks, DUI roadblocks and other safety equipment that will enhance public safety on roadway in both communities.
“Riverside Police Department is proud to continue its partnership with IDOT and other law enforcement agencies to help reduce traffic fatalities. We’re committed to increasing safety on our roadways and will use all available resources to provide safety education programs that encourage safe driving habits”, said Sergeant Leo Kotor. “With continued support and cooperation from the motoring public, we can keep the momentum going in the right direction for years to come”.
Riverside Police Chief Thomas Weitzel stated, “I am very pleased with our partnership with the North Riverside Police Department on traffic safety. Anytime both agencies can share a common goal, save public dollars and enhance public safety in both communities, public confidence in police services will grow”.
