/PRNewswire/ -- Aggressive driving kills, says AAA Michigan. More than half of fatal car crashes involve some form of aggressive driving--speeding, running another driver off the road, tailgating or yelling obscenities.
A 2008 survey by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that 80 percent of respondents consider aggressive drivers to be a serious traffic safety problem. However, many of those same people said they drive aggressively. Relatively minor driving infractions--changing lanes without signaling, following too closely, driving too slowly, honking at other drivers--can easily escalate into potentially deadly altercations. Not every incident turns violent, but 60 percent of motorists admit losing their temper while driving--also known as road rage.
AAA recommendations to avoid aggressive driving:
Don't offend
-- Signal when changing lanes and merging. Avoid cutting off other
drivers.
-- Do not drive slowly in the left lane. If faster traffic wants to pass,
move to the right lane.
-- Allow a two to four second space between your car and the vehicle
ahead of you to prevent tailgating.
-- Keep your hands on the wheel. Obscene gestures often incite other
drivers.
Don't engage
-- Do not take other driver's actions personally. There may be a reason
why another driver is speeding or driving erratically.
-- Give aggressive drivers lots of space.
-- Avoid eye contact with aggressive drivers.
-- Get help. If possible, drive to a safe public place where you can park
and call police. Going to your home leads a potentially violent person
to where you and your loved ones live.
-- Do not get out of your car.
Adjust your behavior
-- Forget winning; driving is not a contest.
-- Give yourself plenty of time to get where you're going. Eliminate your
need to rush.
-- Practice relaxation. Soothing music and deep breathing help you arrive
at your destination in a calmer frame of mind.
-- If you find yourself driving angrily on a regular basis, ask for help.
An anger management course may dramatically change your attitude.
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Saturday, May 30, 2009
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Laurens: I-16 Westbound Reopened Yesterday
WHERE: I-16 westbound at US 441 Exit 51
WHAT: At 7:35 a.m. yesterday morning (Monday) Georgia DOT crews reopened the I-16 westbound travel lanes beginning at US 441 following damage to the State Route 257 bridge near Dublin. Crews continued round-the-clock repair efforts and were able to restore early morning access to the westbound lanes; additionally they kept detoured traffic flowing smoothly during the height of the holiday travel. Bryant Poole, Georgia DOT Director of Operations stated, “A lot of hard work and determination has been put forth to accomplish this huge and challenging task.” Thanks for everyone's support and patience.”
The next task involves awarding the final bridge repair work to contract so that it can be completed in its entirety.
WHAT: At 7:35 a.m. yesterday morning (Monday) Georgia DOT crews reopened the I-16 westbound travel lanes beginning at US 441 following damage to the State Route 257 bridge near Dublin. Crews continued round-the-clock repair efforts and were able to restore early morning access to the westbound lanes; additionally they kept detoured traffic flowing smoothly during the height of the holiday travel. Bryant Poole, Georgia DOT Director of Operations stated, “A lot of hard work and determination has been put forth to accomplish this huge and challenging task.” Thanks for everyone's support and patience.”
The next task involves awarding the final bridge repair work to contract so that it can be completed in its entirety.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Governor Perdue, Georgia DOT and State Farm Insurance Unveil New Sponsorship Initiative
Governor Sonny Perdue, Georgia transportation officials and the State Farm Insurance Co. today announced a new collaborative sponsorship designed to create a long-term, supplemental funding source for the Department's Highway Emergency Response Operator (HERO) program.
"We know that incident management is one of the most effective, efficient methods to relieving congestion," Governor Perdue said. "This partnership ensures sustainable funding is available to keep our HERO trucks busy clearing wrecks and keeping traffic moving."
As a result of this sponsorship agreement, Georgia DOT will receive over $5.1 million ($1.7m/yr) in sponsorship fees from State Farm over the next three years to support the HERO program. There is an option to renew the contract for an additional two years, with the Department receiving $1.825 million for each renewal year. All monies received will be used to support the HERO program. In return, State Farm logos will be placed on HERO vehicles, operator uniforms and signs delineating the HERO service area. And the program will henceforth be known as the Georgia DOT HERO Program, sponsored by State Farm Insurance.
"Our HERO motor service patrol is one of Georgia DOT's most acclaimed programs," noted State Transportation Board Member Brandon Beach, who was instrumental in advocating the sponsorship deal. "We are thrilled at the opportunity to create new revenue sources that will sustain funding for this critical program, both now and in the future. We're going to save the taxpayers millions of dollars in operating costs and allow Georgia DOT HEROs to continue doing what they do best... protecting lives and property; assisting motorists; and reducing incident delays."
"State Farm's support of this program underscores our commitment to help make our roads safer. The HERO program shares our good neighbor commitment and is a partner in our mission of helping people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams." said Tim McFadden, Senior Vice President with State Farm.
As the need for additional funding sources increased, Georgia DOT staff and State Transportation Board members began aggressively pursuing strategies to effectively overcome budget challenges. Recognizing that there may be interest in sponsoring various aspects of its operations in return for advertising privileges, Georgia DOT officials researched similar highway response programs in other states and concluded that a sponsorship program would prove beneficial to the Department. The State Transportation Board then directed the Department last December to pursue this type of sponsorship.
The sponsorship opportunity was advertised January 9, 2009, in a Request for Qualifications/Request for Proposal (RFQ/RFP); a Department selection committee, using criteria stipulated in the RFQ/RFP, awarded the sponsorship to State Farm from three respondents.
The resulting contract term is three years with a two-year renewal period. Sponsorship fees will be paid to the Department as follows:
. Year 1 - $1,700,000 payable upon execution of the Agreement
. Year 2 - $1,700,000 payable on or before May 1, 2010
. Year 3 - $1,700,000 payable on or before May 1, 2011
. (Renewal year) 4 - $1,825,000 payable on or before May 1, 2012
. (Renewal year) 5 - $1,825,000 payable on or before May 1, 2013
Sponsorship fees will be used solely to support and supplement the operation of the HERO program, which currently has an annual operating budget of approximately $7.5 million, 80 percent of which is provided by federal funds, 20 percent by state revenues.
Currently, HERO operators patrol 280 miles of freeways in 13 Metro counties, seven days per week. HERO assists increased nearly 100 percent in the last five years and now approach 100,000 annually.
State Farm is a leading advocate for safer roads and provides ongoing support of auto safety initiatives through partnerships with automotive safety organizations as well as financial and operational resources. For more information on State Farm, visit www.StateFarm.com .
The Georgia Department of Transportation is committed to providing a safe, seamless and sustainable transportation system that supports Georgia's economy and is sensitive to both its citizens and its environment. For general information on the Georgia DOT, visit www.dot.ga.gov.
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"We know that incident management is one of the most effective, efficient methods to relieving congestion," Governor Perdue said. "This partnership ensures sustainable funding is available to keep our HERO trucks busy clearing wrecks and keeping traffic moving."
As a result of this sponsorship agreement, Georgia DOT will receive over $5.1 million ($1.7m/yr) in sponsorship fees from State Farm over the next three years to support the HERO program. There is an option to renew the contract for an additional two years, with the Department receiving $1.825 million for each renewal year. All monies received will be used to support the HERO program. In return, State Farm logos will be placed on HERO vehicles, operator uniforms and signs delineating the HERO service area. And the program will henceforth be known as the Georgia DOT HERO Program, sponsored by State Farm Insurance.
"Our HERO motor service patrol is one of Georgia DOT's most acclaimed programs," noted State Transportation Board Member Brandon Beach, who was instrumental in advocating the sponsorship deal. "We are thrilled at the opportunity to create new revenue sources that will sustain funding for this critical program, both now and in the future. We're going to save the taxpayers millions of dollars in operating costs and allow Georgia DOT HEROs to continue doing what they do best... protecting lives and property; assisting motorists; and reducing incident delays."
"State Farm's support of this program underscores our commitment to help make our roads safer. The HERO program shares our good neighbor commitment and is a partner in our mission of helping people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams." said Tim McFadden, Senior Vice President with State Farm.
As the need for additional funding sources increased, Georgia DOT staff and State Transportation Board members began aggressively pursuing strategies to effectively overcome budget challenges. Recognizing that there may be interest in sponsoring various aspects of its operations in return for advertising privileges, Georgia DOT officials researched similar highway response programs in other states and concluded that a sponsorship program would prove beneficial to the Department. The State Transportation Board then directed the Department last December to pursue this type of sponsorship.
The sponsorship opportunity was advertised January 9, 2009, in a Request for Qualifications/Request for Proposal (RFQ/RFP); a Department selection committee, using criteria stipulated in the RFQ/RFP, awarded the sponsorship to State Farm from three respondents.
The resulting contract term is three years with a two-year renewal period. Sponsorship fees will be paid to the Department as follows:
. Year 1 - $1,700,000 payable upon execution of the Agreement
. Year 2 - $1,700,000 payable on or before May 1, 2010
. Year 3 - $1,700,000 payable on or before May 1, 2011
. (Renewal year) 4 - $1,825,000 payable on or before May 1, 2012
. (Renewal year) 5 - $1,825,000 payable on or before May 1, 2013
Sponsorship fees will be used solely to support and supplement the operation of the HERO program, which currently has an annual operating budget of approximately $7.5 million, 80 percent of which is provided by federal funds, 20 percent by state revenues.
Currently, HERO operators patrol 280 miles of freeways in 13 Metro counties, seven days per week. HERO assists increased nearly 100 percent in the last five years and now approach 100,000 annually.
State Farm is a leading advocate for safer roads and provides ongoing support of auto safety initiatives through partnerships with automotive safety organizations as well as financial and operational resources. For more information on State Farm, visit www.StateFarm.com .
The Georgia Department of Transportation is committed to providing a safe, seamless and sustainable transportation system that supports Georgia's economy and is sensitive to both its citizens and its environment. For general information on the Georgia DOT, visit www.dot.ga.gov.
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Coweta: Lane Closures on US 29 and Near Exit 41 on I-85
The Georgia Department of Transportation announces lane closures on US 29 near Interstate 85 and Exit 41(State Route 14/US 27 Alt) beginning Tuesday, May 26, through Friday, May 29. The closures are subject to change based on weather conditions.
US 29 at I-85 (Exit 35) East and Westbound Lane Closures
Wednesday, May 27, nightly through Friday, May 29
Near mileposts 10 - 11
TIME: 7 p.m. – 7 a.m.
1 right and left lane closed; 1 remains open to traffic in both directions
Interstate 85 Northbound Lane Closures
Tuesday, May 26
Near mileposts 41 – 42
TIME: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
1 left lane closed; 1 lane remains open to traffic, for work near Exit 41 (State Route 14/US 27 Alt)
The scheduled completion date for this project is December 31, 2009. Motorists should expect shoulder and lane closures on a continuing basis and are advised to use extra caution in construction work zones.
Speed limits have been reduced and will be strictly enforced. Message boards, signs, barricades, barrels and cones will be utilized to alert and channel motorists through the area.
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US 29 at I-85 (Exit 35) East and Westbound Lane Closures
Wednesday, May 27, nightly through Friday, May 29
Near mileposts 10 - 11
TIME: 7 p.m. – 7 a.m.
1 right and left lane closed; 1 remains open to traffic in both directions
Interstate 85 Northbound Lane Closures
Tuesday, May 26
Near mileposts 41 – 42
TIME: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
1 left lane closed; 1 lane remains open to traffic, for work near Exit 41 (State Route 14/US 27 Alt)
The scheduled completion date for this project is December 31, 2009. Motorists should expect shoulder and lane closures on a continuing basis and are advised to use extra caution in construction work zones.
Speed limits have been reduced and will be strictly enforced. Message boards, signs, barricades, barrels and cones will be utilized to alert and channel motorists through the area.
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Coweta: Road Closure & Temporary Traffic Signal
Canongate Road will be closed from June 1st through early August at Persimmon Creek in northeast Coweta County. A faulty culvert will be replaced where Canongate Road crosses Persimmon Creek, just south of the entrance of Persimmon Creek subdivision.
Message boards have been placed on Canongate Road to notify the public of this closure. The detour route has been established along Palmetto-Tyrone Road, Weldon Road and Collinsworth Road. A temporary 3-way traffic signal has been placed at Palmetto-Tyrone and Weldon Roads to help deal with the additional traffic caused by the detour. The signal began flashing today, May 22, and will be operational on Tuesday, May 26.
It is expected that this project will take approximately 10 weeks to complete, weather permitting.
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Message boards have been placed on Canongate Road to notify the public of this closure. The detour route has been established along Palmetto-Tyrone Road, Weldon Road and Collinsworth Road. A temporary 3-way traffic signal has been placed at Palmetto-Tyrone and Weldon Roads to help deal with the additional traffic caused by the detour. The signal began flashing today, May 22, and will be operational on Tuesday, May 26.
It is expected that this project will take approximately 10 weeks to complete, weather permitting.
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Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Sumter County: Traffic Shift to Occur on US 19 / State Route 3
WHEN: Monday, May 18
WHERE: US 19/State Route 3, near its intersection with US 280
WHAT: The Georgia Department of Transportation advises motorists on US 19/State Route 3 of an upcoming traffic shift onto the newly constructed lanes, near US 280 in Sumter County. This shift will occur during the late afternoon hours of Monday, May 18.
This is a WORK ZONE and extreme caution is necessary. Motorists are advised to reduce speeds and expect congestion as they travel through this construction work zone.
Speed limits have been reduced and will be strictly enforced. Message boards, signs, barrels and cones will be utilized to alert and channel motorists through the area.
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WHERE: US 19/State Route 3, near its intersection with US 280
WHAT: The Georgia Department of Transportation advises motorists on US 19/State Route 3 of an upcoming traffic shift onto the newly constructed lanes, near US 280 in Sumter County. This shift will occur during the late afternoon hours of Monday, May 18.
This is a WORK ZONE and extreme caution is necessary. Motorists are advised to reduce speeds and expect congestion as they travel through this construction work zone.
Speed limits have been reduced and will be strictly enforced. Message boards, signs, barrels and cones will be utilized to alert and channel motorists through the area.
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Monday, May 11, 2009
Time To Request School Attendance Form For Summer Driver Testing
As Summer approaches, the Department of Driver Services (DDS) reminds students needing to test for an instructional permit or driver’s license over the long vacation to obtain a “DDS Certificate of Attendance Form” from their school administration before the end of the school year. Students planning for an on-the-road test will also need a Georgia Alcohol Drug Awareness Program (ADAP) certificate of completion.
DDS Certificate of Attendance Forms must be signed and notarized from the student’s school and presented at the time of applying for a permit or Class D driver’s license. Typically, the form is valid for one month. However, the Certificate of Attendance Forms issued in May 2009 will be accepted until September 30, 2009.
All applicants under the age of 18 not enrolled in school must provide a GED diploma, high school diploma, or an attendance form from the student’s local Board of Education if enrolled in an approved home school program.
The ADAP course is taught in both public and private schools typically with the 9th grade Health curriculum. Makeup classes are also conducted and certificates must be obtained from the student’s instructor.
For complete Georgia driver licensing and testing requirements, please visit http://www.dds.ga.gov/.
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DDS Certificate of Attendance Forms must be signed and notarized from the student’s school and presented at the time of applying for a permit or Class D driver’s license. Typically, the form is valid for one month. However, the Certificate of Attendance Forms issued in May 2009 will be accepted until September 30, 2009.
All applicants under the age of 18 not enrolled in school must provide a GED diploma, high school diploma, or an attendance form from the student’s local Board of Education if enrolled in an approved home school program.
The ADAP course is taught in both public and private schools typically with the 9th grade Health curriculum. Makeup classes are also conducted and certificates must be obtained from the student’s instructor.
For complete Georgia driver licensing and testing requirements, please visit http://www.dds.ga.gov/.
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Henry: I-75 NB South of I-675- Accident
Multiple lanes are blocked on I-75 NB south of I-675 in Henry County due to an accident involving a tractor trailer. Northbound traffic on I-75 is backed up all the way to McDonough. Motorists are strongly advised to AVOID I-75 NB and use alternate routes until further notice.
Call 511 for updates.
Call 511 for updates.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Coweta: Lane Closures on US 29 and SR 34 Near I-85
The Georgia Department of Transportation announces daily lane closures on US 29 and State Route 34 near Interstate 85 beginning Monday, May 11, through Thursday, May 14. The closures are subject to change based on weather conditions.
US 29 at I-85 (Exit 35) East and Westbound Lane Closures
Monday, May 11, nightly through Thursday, May 14
Near mileposts 10 - 11
TIME: 7 p.m. – 7 a.m.
1 right and left lane closed; 1 remains open to traffic in both directions
State Route 34 at I-85 (Exit 47) East and Westbound Lane Closures
Tuesday, May 12, nightly through Thursday, May 14
Near mileposts 15 - 16
TIME: 7 p.m. – 7 a.m.
1 right and left lane closed; 1 remains open to traffic in both directions
The scheduled completion date for this project is December 31, 2009. Motorists should expect shoulder and lane closures on a continuing basis and are advised to use extra caution in construction work zones.
Speed limits have been reduced and will be strictly enforced. Message boards, signs, barricades, barrels and cones will be utilized to alert and channel motorists through the area.
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US 29 at I-85 (Exit 35) East and Westbound Lane Closures
Monday, May 11, nightly through Thursday, May 14
Near mileposts 10 - 11
TIME: 7 p.m. – 7 a.m.
1 right and left lane closed; 1 remains open to traffic in both directions
State Route 34 at I-85 (Exit 47) East and Westbound Lane Closures
Tuesday, May 12, nightly through Thursday, May 14
Near mileposts 15 - 16
TIME: 7 p.m. – 7 a.m.
1 right and left lane closed; 1 remains open to traffic in both directions
The scheduled completion date for this project is December 31, 2009. Motorists should expect shoulder and lane closures on a continuing basis and are advised to use extra caution in construction work zones.
Speed limits have been reduced and will be strictly enforced. Message boards, signs, barricades, barrels and cones will be utilized to alert and channel motorists through the area.
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Friday, May 1, 2009
Coweta: I-85 Lane Closures Near Exits 35 and 41
The Georgia Department of Transportation announces daily lane closures on Interstate 85 near Exit 35 (State Route 14/US 29) and Exit 41 (State Route 14/US 27 Alt) beginning Monday, May 4, through Saturday, May 9. The closures are subject to change based on weather conditions.
Interstate 85 North and Southbound Lane Closures
Monday, May 4
Near mileposts 41 – 43 northbound and mileposts 43 -41 southbound
TIME: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
1 left lane closed; 1 lane remains open to traffic, for work beginning near Exit 41 (State Route 14/US 27 Alt)
US 29 at I-85 (Exit 35) East and Westbound Lane Closures
Wednesday, May 6, nightly through Saturday, May 9
Near mileposts 10 - 11
TIME: 7 p.m. – 7 a.m.
1 right and left lane closed; 1 remains open to traffic to traffic in both directions
The scheduled completion date for this project is December 31, 2009. Motorists should expect shoulder and lane closures on a continuing basis and are advised to use extra caution in construction work zones.
Speed limits have been reduced and will be strictly enforced. Message boards, signs, barricades, barrels and cones will be utilized to alert and channel motorists through the area.
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Interstate 85 North and Southbound Lane Closures
Monday, May 4
Near mileposts 41 – 43 northbound and mileposts 43 -41 southbound
TIME: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
1 left lane closed; 1 lane remains open to traffic, for work beginning near Exit 41 (State Route 14/US 27 Alt)
US 29 at I-85 (Exit 35) East and Westbound Lane Closures
Wednesday, May 6, nightly through Saturday, May 9
Near mileposts 10 - 11
TIME: 7 p.m. – 7 a.m.
1 right and left lane closed; 1 remains open to traffic to traffic in both directions
The scheduled completion date for this project is December 31, 2009. Motorists should expect shoulder and lane closures on a continuing basis and are advised to use extra caution in construction work zones.
Speed limits have been reduced and will be strictly enforced. Message boards, signs, barricades, barrels and cones will be utilized to alert and channel motorists through the area.
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Monday, April 27, 2009
Coweta: I-85 Lane Closures Near Exits 35 and 37
The Georgia Department of Transportation announces daily lane closures on Interstate 85 near Exit 35 (State Route 14/US 29) and Exit 47 (State Route 34) beginning Monday, April 27, through Wednesday, April 29. The closures are subject to change based on weather conditions.
Interstate 85 Northbound Lane Closures
Monday, April 27, daily through Tuesday, April 28
Near mileposts 45 - 47
TIME: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
1 right lane closed; 1 lane remains open to traffic, for work beginning south of Exit 47 (State Route 34)
Interstate 85 Southbound Lane Closures
Tuesday, April 28, daily through Wednesday, April 29
Near mileposts 35 - 33
TIME: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
1 left lane closed; 1 lane remains open to traffic, for work beginning at Exit 35 (State Route 14/US 29)
The scheduled completion date for this project is December 31, 2009. Motorists should expect shoulder and lane closures on a continuing basis and are advised to use extra caution in construction work zones.
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Interstate 85 Northbound Lane Closures
Monday, April 27, daily through Tuesday, April 28
Near mileposts 45 - 47
TIME: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
1 right lane closed; 1 lane remains open to traffic, for work beginning south of Exit 47 (State Route 34)
Interstate 85 Southbound Lane Closures
Tuesday, April 28, daily through Wednesday, April 29
Near mileposts 35 - 33
TIME: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
1 left lane closed; 1 lane remains open to traffic, for work beginning at Exit 35 (State Route 14/US 29)
The scheduled completion date for this project is December 31, 2009. Motorists should expect shoulder and lane closures on a continuing basis and are advised to use extra caution in construction work zones.
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Friday, April 24, 2009
Coweta: Exit 35 Northbound Off-Ramp Closed Temporarily
WHAT: The northbound off-ramp at Exit 35 (State Route 14/US 29) on Interstate 85 will be temporarily closed in order to complete concrete paving.
WHEN: April 25, beginning at 8 a.m. continuing until 4 p.m.
WHERE: Interstate 85 at Exit 35(State Route 14/US 29)
Motorists will be detoured to Exit 41 (State Route 14/US 27 Alt) northbound; where they will be able to exit southbound back to Exit 35 (State Route 14/US 29). Signed detour routes will be in place. Motorists are advised to anticipate delays and to avoid travel near Exit 35.
WHEN: April 25, beginning at 8 a.m. continuing until 4 p.m.
WHERE: Interstate 85 at Exit 35(State Route 14/US 29)
Motorists will be detoured to Exit 41 (State Route 14/US 27 Alt) northbound; where they will be able to exit southbound back to Exit 35 (State Route 14/US 29). Signed detour routes will be in place. Motorists are advised to anticipate delays and to avoid travel near Exit 35.
Macon County: Resurfacing in Downtown Montezuma
WHEN: 6 p.m., Wednesday, April 29, until 5 a.m., Monday, May 4
WHERE: Resurfacing of SR 90, both directions, beginning at its intersection with SR 26 and extending to SR 49
WHAT: The Georgia DOT will begin milling, resurfacing and shoulder reconstruction west of Drumwright Street extending east of Norris Street and on SR 90 beginning at SR 26 and extending to SR 49.
As in any work zone, motorists are reminded to pay special attention to traffic control devices, signs and posted speed limits to ensure safe passage through the work zone.
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WHERE: Resurfacing of SR 90, both directions, beginning at its intersection with SR 26 and extending to SR 49
WHAT: The Georgia DOT will begin milling, resurfacing and shoulder reconstruction west of Drumwright Street extending east of Norris Street and on SR 90 beginning at SR 26 and extending to SR 49.
As in any work zone, motorists are reminded to pay special attention to traffic control devices, signs and posted speed limits to ensure safe passage through the work zone.
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Thursday, April 23, 2009
First Georgia Stimulus Projects to be let in May
The State Transportation Board selected 49 projects across Georgia earlier this month as the first installment of hundreds of transportation projects throughout the state that will begin during the coming year utilizing $932 million in federal stimulus funds designed to create and sustain jobs.
The Board voted this week to focus the Georgia Department of Transportation’s May letting on moving the economic stimulus projects forward. Accordingly, the first 49 projects – valued at approximately $111 million and ranging from resurfacing State Route 75 in Towns County in Northeast Georgia to safety improvements on Buford Highway in Metro Atlanta to replacing a bridge over Drag Nasty Creek in southwest Georgia’s Clay County – will be let (prospective contractors’ bids accepted and opened) on May 22. Bid awards to contractors should occur some two weeks later and actual construction begin in July.
“It is extremely important that we put Georgia’s contractors back to work and that they, in turn, put thousands of Georgians back to work,” Transportation Board Chairman Bill Kuhlke, Jr., noted. “These first 49 projects are a good beginning. Many more are in the pipeline. We’ve instructed Department staff to make stimulus implementation, which is all about creating and saving jobs for Georgians, a top priority of Georgia DOT.”
The 49 projects are the first to begin of 135 selected by the Board last month for stimulus funding and are among those certified by Governor Sonny Perdue on April 7. Pending similar gubernatorial certification, the remaining 86 projects, valued at some $401 million, will be let in June and subsequent months as Georgia’s Phase One highway and intermodal stimulus programs. In addition, the Board is expected to select by December projects for another $343 million in Phase Two stimulus funding.
The transportation stimulus funds are a component of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, a nationwide effort to create jobs and transform America’s economy to compete in the 21st century. Nationwide, some $48 billion in stimulus investments will be made in transportation infrastructure, including highways, public transit, high speed rail and aviation.
Georgia DOT is responsible for 70 percent of Georgia’s $932 million in highway system stimulus funds. The remaining 30 percent goes to the state’s 15 metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), which are determining projects to be funded from their respective allocations. The state also is receiving $144 million in stimulus funds for public transit and is eligible for additional highway, rail and aviation grants from funds totaling $12.1 billion.
All selected stimulus projects will be fully funded by the federal government; no state or local matching funds are required.
Georgia DOT has created a Web page (www.dot.ga.gov/gastimulus) devoted to stimulus activities to provide specific program information and promote transparency of the process. The list of projects selected for the May letting can be viewed on this page, along with other important ARRA information.
The State Transportation Board determines policy and exercises general governance of Georgia’s Department of Transportation. The Board’s 13 members, representing each of the state’s congressional districts, serve staggered, five-year terms. Board members are elected by those state senators and representatives whose legislative districts fall within all or part of the relevant congressional district.
The Georgia Department of Transportation is committed to providing a safe, seamless and sustainable transportation system that supports Georgia’s economy and is sensitive to both its citizens and its environment.
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The Board voted this week to focus the Georgia Department of Transportation’s May letting on moving the economic stimulus projects forward. Accordingly, the first 49 projects – valued at approximately $111 million and ranging from resurfacing State Route 75 in Towns County in Northeast Georgia to safety improvements on Buford Highway in Metro Atlanta to replacing a bridge over Drag Nasty Creek in southwest Georgia’s Clay County – will be let (prospective contractors’ bids accepted and opened) on May 22. Bid awards to contractors should occur some two weeks later and actual construction begin in July.
“It is extremely important that we put Georgia’s contractors back to work and that they, in turn, put thousands of Georgians back to work,” Transportation Board Chairman Bill Kuhlke, Jr., noted. “These first 49 projects are a good beginning. Many more are in the pipeline. We’ve instructed Department staff to make stimulus implementation, which is all about creating and saving jobs for Georgians, a top priority of Georgia DOT.”
The 49 projects are the first to begin of 135 selected by the Board last month for stimulus funding and are among those certified by Governor Sonny Perdue on April 7. Pending similar gubernatorial certification, the remaining 86 projects, valued at some $401 million, will be let in June and subsequent months as Georgia’s Phase One highway and intermodal stimulus programs. In addition, the Board is expected to select by December projects for another $343 million in Phase Two stimulus funding.
The transportation stimulus funds are a component of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, a nationwide effort to create jobs and transform America’s economy to compete in the 21st century. Nationwide, some $48 billion in stimulus investments will be made in transportation infrastructure, including highways, public transit, high speed rail and aviation.
Georgia DOT is responsible for 70 percent of Georgia’s $932 million in highway system stimulus funds. The remaining 30 percent goes to the state’s 15 metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), which are determining projects to be funded from their respective allocations. The state also is receiving $144 million in stimulus funds for public transit and is eligible for additional highway, rail and aviation grants from funds totaling $12.1 billion.
All selected stimulus projects will be fully funded by the federal government; no state or local matching funds are required.
Georgia DOT has created a Web page (www.dot.ga.gov/gastimulus) devoted to stimulus activities to provide specific program information and promote transparency of the process. The list of projects selected for the May letting can be viewed on this page, along with other important ARRA information.
The State Transportation Board determines policy and exercises general governance of Georgia’s Department of Transportation. The Board’s 13 members, representing each of the state’s congressional districts, serve staggered, five-year terms. Board members are elected by those state senators and representatives whose legislative districts fall within all or part of the relevant congressional district.
The Georgia Department of Transportation is committed to providing a safe, seamless and sustainable transportation system that supports Georgia’s economy and is sensitive to both its citizens and its environment.
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www.FayetteFrontPage.com
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Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Georgia's Move Over Law a Proven Lifesaver
Think police work is dangerous? According to FBI reports, traffic enforcement units face some of the greatest risks on the road. In 2008 crashes and traffic-related incidents either equaled or exceeded officers under fire as the leading cause of police deaths in this country…for the twelfth consecutive year.
“Failure for drivers to simply move-over a lane can have killer consequences for our hometown police officers working alongside our highways,” said Director Bob Dallas of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety (GOHS). Nationwide, incident reports show law enforcement and emergency vehicles of all types are struck while working beside a highway…even while red, yellow, blue or white emergency lights are flashing.
“Let’s face it,” said GOHS Director Dallas. “Put a steering wheel in the wrong hands and a motor vehicle becomes a multi-ton killing machine. And although no criminal intent may be involved, when an officer dies because a careless motorist points a car in the wrong direction, that officer is just as dead as when a felon points a gun and pulls a trigger. That’s exactly why we have the Move Over Law here in Georgia.”
Georgia’s Move Over Law is a proven lifesaver, its common sense, and it has only two simple steps to remember:
1. Like the name says, it requires drivers to move-over one lane if possible whenever an emergency vehicle of any kind is working on the side of the road displaying flashing blue, red, yellow or white emergency lights..
2. What if traffic is too congested to move-over safely? The Move-Over Law says if there’s no room to move over, drivers must slow down, below the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop.
Police have been enforcing this lifesaving law in Georgia since 2003…And now, wherever you drive across the country in 2009, forty-two other states have laws like it. While the nation got around to adopting Move-Over Laws, more than 169 law enforcement officers have been struck and killed by vehicles along America’s highways since 1997. Those twelve tragic years demonstrate that each time an officer makes a traffic stop, it’s one of the gravest dangers police can face on the road today.
Just last October in Georgia, Oconee County Deputy David Gilstrap was struck and killed outside his patrol car in what investigators have ruled a Move Over Law violation. Deputy Gilstrap was wearing a reflective vest and directing traffic with two bright orange cone flashlights outside a primary school at 7:25 AM when he was struck by a motorist inside the school zone.
“It’s one of the greatest perils of wearing a uniform,” said Director Dallas. “Our officers observe careless driving nearly every time they make a traffic stop or motorist assist. Anyone who works our roadways is at risk, but our traffic enforcement details are in constant danger.”
And it isn’t just about saving the lives of police officers, deputies and state troopers,” said Director Dallas. “The law also applies to emergency vehicles operated by our firefighters, paramedics, DOT maintenance and construction crews, and wrecker drivers. These dedicated professionals put their lives on the line every day to make sure our roads are safe for our families to travel,” Dallas said. “Now with the economic stimulus funds being used to improve our nation’s roadways, we can expect even more construction crews out working for us and they’re vulnerable.”
The Move-Over Law was passed here after Georgia road crews, traffic enforcement officers, and other first responders endured needless years of roadside deaths and injuries due to careless errors made by distracted drivers as they sped by police making traffic stops and emergency crews working roadside jobsites.
“So the Move-Over Law is another good reason to slow down on Georgia’s interstates and rural roads,” said Director Dallas. “When a motorist makes the required clearance for a roadside emergency vehicle the margin of safety increases not only for public safety and emergency personnel, but for passing motorists and their passengers as well. Observing the Move-Over Law is vital because motorists like you and me are often crash victims as well,” said Dallas.
Nationally, more than a thousand motorists are killed every year in work zone crashes and another 40-thousand passenger vehicle occupants are seriously injured. Startling Georgia DOT stats show three-out-of-four work zone fatalities are actually motorists or their passengers, not highway work crews. Now drivers caught speeding or driving recklessly in a Georgia work zone can expect fines up to $2,000.
“Unfortunately, violations of Georgia’s Move-Over Law are still far too common and police still experience too many close calls with too many aggressive drivers,” said Director Dallas. To reduce the deadly potential for Georgia law enforcement fatalities, legislators here allow local judges to set Move-Over Law violation fines as high as five-hundred-dollars to help modify careless driver behavior. Penalties in other states range as high as a thousand dollars and more states are considering “Move Over” legislation like Georgia’s.
But the odds still target police on patrol. The 2008 National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) “Fallen Heroes Report” shows eighteen officers died during their daily traffic enforcement duties last year across this country. “Agency figures can’t begin to keep up with the countless cops who suffer injuries from passing motorists and the near misses never make it into annual reports,” said Director Dallas.
As a result, many Georgia police agencies now routinely designate traffic enforcement units to work in pairs during daily patrols. While one officer is working traffic enforcement, a second officer cites drivers who fail to move-over or slow down. This pro-active method of Move-Over Law enforcement is resulting in more citations and more news coverage about Georgia’s lifesaving statute throughout the state.
Both the Georgia DOT and many municipalities have posted warning signs throughout the State. A five-hundred-dollar-fine for the first offense is a costly reminder, but as more local police departments deploy these high-visibility enforcement measures, all anyone has to do to avoid the Move Over Law fine is use this common sense precaution behind the wheel: “Slow Down. Change Lanes. Save Lives.” Read the full text of Georgia’s Move Over Law on our website at www.gahighwaysafety.org. For more information on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund studies, visit www.nleomf.com.
The Peachtree City Police Department has several programs in place in regards to traffic safety. Through educational programs at the schools, road safety checkpoints, and saturation patrols. The City of Peachtree City has set up an on-line based system for traffic safety concerns, programs, and educational materials which can be reached at www.peachtree-city.org/traffic. Additional traffic concern questions or comments can be made by email at traffic@peachtree-city.org or by calling 770-487-8866 and requesting to speak to any member of the Community Response Team (C.R.T.).
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Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
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“Failure for drivers to simply move-over a lane can have killer consequences for our hometown police officers working alongside our highways,” said Director Bob Dallas of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety (GOHS). Nationwide, incident reports show law enforcement and emergency vehicles of all types are struck while working beside a highway…even while red, yellow, blue or white emergency lights are flashing.
“Let’s face it,” said GOHS Director Dallas. “Put a steering wheel in the wrong hands and a motor vehicle becomes a multi-ton killing machine. And although no criminal intent may be involved, when an officer dies because a careless motorist points a car in the wrong direction, that officer is just as dead as when a felon points a gun and pulls a trigger. That’s exactly why we have the Move Over Law here in Georgia.”
Georgia’s Move Over Law is a proven lifesaver, its common sense, and it has only two simple steps to remember:
1. Like the name says, it requires drivers to move-over one lane if possible whenever an emergency vehicle of any kind is working on the side of the road displaying flashing blue, red, yellow or white emergency lights..
2. What if traffic is too congested to move-over safely? The Move-Over Law says if there’s no room to move over, drivers must slow down, below the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop.
Police have been enforcing this lifesaving law in Georgia since 2003…And now, wherever you drive across the country in 2009, forty-two other states have laws like it. While the nation got around to adopting Move-Over Laws, more than 169 law enforcement officers have been struck and killed by vehicles along America’s highways since 1997. Those twelve tragic years demonstrate that each time an officer makes a traffic stop, it’s one of the gravest dangers police can face on the road today.
Just last October in Georgia, Oconee County Deputy David Gilstrap was struck and killed outside his patrol car in what investigators have ruled a Move Over Law violation. Deputy Gilstrap was wearing a reflective vest and directing traffic with two bright orange cone flashlights outside a primary school at 7:25 AM when he was struck by a motorist inside the school zone.
“It’s one of the greatest perils of wearing a uniform,” said Director Dallas. “Our officers observe careless driving nearly every time they make a traffic stop or motorist assist. Anyone who works our roadways is at risk, but our traffic enforcement details are in constant danger.”
And it isn’t just about saving the lives of police officers, deputies and state troopers,” said Director Dallas. “The law also applies to emergency vehicles operated by our firefighters, paramedics, DOT maintenance and construction crews, and wrecker drivers. These dedicated professionals put their lives on the line every day to make sure our roads are safe for our families to travel,” Dallas said. “Now with the economic stimulus funds being used to improve our nation’s roadways, we can expect even more construction crews out working for us and they’re vulnerable.”
The Move-Over Law was passed here after Georgia road crews, traffic enforcement officers, and other first responders endured needless years of roadside deaths and injuries due to careless errors made by distracted drivers as they sped by police making traffic stops and emergency crews working roadside jobsites.
“So the Move-Over Law is another good reason to slow down on Georgia’s interstates and rural roads,” said Director Dallas. “When a motorist makes the required clearance for a roadside emergency vehicle the margin of safety increases not only for public safety and emergency personnel, but for passing motorists and their passengers as well. Observing the Move-Over Law is vital because motorists like you and me are often crash victims as well,” said Dallas.
Nationally, more than a thousand motorists are killed every year in work zone crashes and another 40-thousand passenger vehicle occupants are seriously injured. Startling Georgia DOT stats show three-out-of-four work zone fatalities are actually motorists or their passengers, not highway work crews. Now drivers caught speeding or driving recklessly in a Georgia work zone can expect fines up to $2,000.
“Unfortunately, violations of Georgia’s Move-Over Law are still far too common and police still experience too many close calls with too many aggressive drivers,” said Director Dallas. To reduce the deadly potential for Georgia law enforcement fatalities, legislators here allow local judges to set Move-Over Law violation fines as high as five-hundred-dollars to help modify careless driver behavior. Penalties in other states range as high as a thousand dollars and more states are considering “Move Over” legislation like Georgia’s.
But the odds still target police on patrol. The 2008 National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) “Fallen Heroes Report” shows eighteen officers died during their daily traffic enforcement duties last year across this country. “Agency figures can’t begin to keep up with the countless cops who suffer injuries from passing motorists and the near misses never make it into annual reports,” said Director Dallas.
As a result, many Georgia police agencies now routinely designate traffic enforcement units to work in pairs during daily patrols. While one officer is working traffic enforcement, a second officer cites drivers who fail to move-over or slow down. This pro-active method of Move-Over Law enforcement is resulting in more citations and more news coverage about Georgia’s lifesaving statute throughout the state.
Both the Georgia DOT and many municipalities have posted warning signs throughout the State. A five-hundred-dollar-fine for the first offense is a costly reminder, but as more local police departments deploy these high-visibility enforcement measures, all anyone has to do to avoid the Move Over Law fine is use this common sense precaution behind the wheel: “Slow Down. Change Lanes. Save Lives.” Read the full text of Georgia’s Move Over Law on our website at www.gahighwaysafety.org. For more information on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund studies, visit www.nleomf.com.
The Peachtree City Police Department has several programs in place in regards to traffic safety. Through educational programs at the schools, road safety checkpoints, and saturation patrols. The City of Peachtree City has set up an on-line based system for traffic safety concerns, programs, and educational materials which can be reached at www.peachtree-city.org/traffic. Additional traffic concern questions or comments can be made by email at traffic@peachtree-city.org or by calling 770-487-8866 and requesting to speak to any member of the Community Response Team (C.R.T.).
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
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