Placerville, Calif. (Oct 4, 2024) – In a significant move to enhance road safety, the Placerville Police Department has been awarded a $70,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). This grant will bolster the department’s efforts to curb dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and protect residents and visitors alike. Running through September 2025, the program will focus on both enforcement and education to reduce serious injuries and fatalities on local roads.
“We are grateful to receive this grant, which will strengthen our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety,” said Chief Wren. “By increasing enforcement of traffic laws and focusing on high-risk areas, we aim to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and make our roads safer for everyone.”
The OTS grant will fund several key initiatives, including:
- DUI checkpoints and patrols targeting impaired drivers.
- Distracted driving enforcement to crack down on cell phone use while driving, in line with California’s hands-free law.
- Pedestrian and cyclist safety operations, focusing on reducing risks for vulnerable road users.
- Targeted enforcement of high-risk violations like speeding, failure to yield, and red-light running.
- Community outreach programs addressing key issues such as distracted and impaired driving, speeding, and bike/pedestrian safety.
- Officer training and certification in advanced roadside impaired driving techniques and drug recognition expertise.
This initiative underscores Placerville’s commitment to reducing traffic accidents and saving lives. The additional funding will enhance both the presence and effectiveness of traffic enforcement officers, creating a safer driving environment for everyone in the community.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety.
