As the warm weather rolls in, so does an important reminder: traffic safety is everyone's responsibility. Here in the Midtown Police District, we're doubling down on efforts to make our roads safer for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Why Safe Driving Matters
Traffic safety has long been a top concern for our community--and not just in the Midtown District. However, we've seen a growing number of complaints from residents and increased concern from city officials regarding dangerous driving behaviors. These concerns range from excessive speeding to reckless driving in neighborhoods where families live, children play, and people walk or bike daily.
To directly address these issues, the Midtown Police District is launching a Summer Traffic Safety Initiative, running from June 1 through September 1. This effort is designed to be proactive and data-driven, helping us better understand where improvements are needed and how best to implement lasting changes.
What to Expect
While this initiative is separate from our Stratified Policing model, officers can expect to hear from me and my Lieutenants about traffic enforcement priorities as part of the daily briefings and weekly missions.
The main focus of the plan is enforcing hazardous moving violations--such as speeding, running stop signs, and reckless driving. These behaviors are not just against the law--they put lives at risk. It's important to note that registration and equipment issues are not the focus of this operation.
Why Citations Matter
Studies show that citations are more effective than warnings when it comes to improving driver behavior. While officers still have the discretion to issue warnings in appropriate situations, citations are a key part of our strategy to reduce the dangerous driving behaviors.
Coordinated Enforcement and Visibility
Throughout the summer, Community Policing Teams (CPTs), in collaboration with the Traffic Enforcement Safety Team (TEST), will carry out weekly proactive traffic operations in each district, with a strong focus on speed enforcement. Patrol officers, Neighborhood Police Officers (NPOs), and Neighborhood Resource Officers (NROs) will join these efforts when possible.
What You Can Do
You don't have to wear a badge to make a difference. Here are a few tips to help keep the Midtown District safe:
- Slow down: Always drive within the speed limit, especially in residential areas and school zones.
- Stay alert: Avoid distractions like texting or eating while driving.
- Obey signs and signals: Stop completely at stop signs and yield where required.
- Share the road: Be mindful of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
- Report dangerous driving: If you witness unsafe driving, call the MPD Speeders Hotline at 608-266-4822.
Looking Ahead
At the end of the summer, the MPD will review the data collected to assess the effectiveness of our strategy and determine the next steps. Your feedback and cooperation are vital to making Midtown a safer place for everyone.
Let's work together to create a culture of respect and responsibility on our roads. Safe driving saves lives--and it starts with you.
Capt. Shannon Blackamore, Midtown District Commander