October 16, 2009

Increased State Trooper Patrols, Message Signs on Highway 160

MONTGOMERY - Governor Bob Riley announced that increased state trooper patrols started at 6 a.m. on Friday along Highway 160 in Blount County, where several serious crashes have occurred. The increased patrols are being done while the state awaits federal approval to move forward with plans to widen the highway from I-65 to Hayden.

In addition to the increased patrols, message boards showing drivers their speeds will be placed along the highway to encourage motorists to slow down.

“This stretch of highway has been the scene of many tragic accidents,” said Governor Riley. “The state is putting guardrails up in some spots and is awaiting federal approval to move forward with needed construction, which we hope to receive soon. In the meantime, extra patrols will take place to increase safety for motorists.”

As part of its efforts to improve safety on the highway, the state has already completed installing turn lanes in front of three Hayden schools on Highway 160.

The Alabama Department of Transportation and the Alabama Department of Public Safety are working together on the effort. ALDOT is using funds from a dedicated safety program to fund the extra patrol work, so it will not result in a loss of funds for road and bridge projects. The funding will provide for overtime pay for state troopers to patrol the highway.