From the Office of the Sheriff Sheriff Dennis L. Dotson

For Immediate Release

NEWS RELEASE

Date: July 23, 2007

Summary:

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office successfully completed a Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation on Highway 101 in Depoe Bay on July 13, 2007. The local enforcement effort was funded by a traffic safety grant from The Bicycle Transportation Alliance and Willamette Pedestrian Coalition. The purpose of the operation was to raise driver and public awareness regarding pedestrian safety. The operation involved the use of a decoy pedestrian crossing in the marked crosswalk at the north end of town. Traffic cones were deployed on the highway indicating where the operation began and ended for motorists traveling both directions through the operation. The operation lasted 3 hours. Members of the Depoe Bay Traffic Safety Committee and Depoe Bay City Council, including Mayor White, assisted in the operation. Local business also helped make the operation a success.

Deputies issued 7 citations to the 16 motorists who failed to stop for the pedestrian. Ten motorists were issued warnings for issues including speeding and improperly wearing of safety belts. Educational brochures were also distributed to motorists. 313 motorists correctly stopped for the pedestrian resulting in a compliance rate of 95%.

Other operations are planned for August in Yachats and September in Waldport. Media releases will be made prior to each operation.

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