Throughout 2010, the Madison Police Department will be participating in a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sponsored alcohol enforcement overtime grant that will be coordinated through the Department of Transportation, Bureau of Transportation Safety.

As part of this grant initiative, additional Madison police officers will be on patrol February 5th with the objective of detecting and apprehending motor vehicle operators who are committing traffic violations and/or who are operating a motor vehicle while impaired.

The Madison Police Department is committed to improving traffic safety in our community by increasing compliance with traffic laws through education and enforcement. Although law enforcement efforts are an important part of public safety, we rely heavily on the cooperation of the public to be aware of and to follow all traffic laws, whether as a pedestrian, bicyclist or motorist.

The Madison Police Department supports the "Zero In Wisconsin" campaign and believes that we all can make a difference. Please remember to drive safely and to "buckle up." State law now allows law enforcement to stop a vehicle when a driver is observed not wearing a safety belt The Madison Police Department also reminds motorists that state law requires that vehicles yield right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Remember - don't drink and drive!