TRAFFIC-SAFETY PROJECT WINS NATIONAL AWARD

As the first Safe Communities Program in the state, Cape Girardeau's thriving effort is serving not only as a model for other Missouri cities, but also is a national model, thanks in part to a national award the program will receive Nov. 17.

In special ceremonies in Washington, D.C., Cape Girardeau's Safe Communities Program will be one of 10 in the nation to win a Champion Award from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. While in the nation's capital, representatives from the Cape Girardeau program will have an opportunity to visit with the U.S. secretary of transportation.

One thing about Cape Girardeau's program that caught national attention is that it is based in the police department. In addition, there are more than 20 other organizations and agencies that participate in a variety of safe-driving programs coordinated by the police department.

For example, the Safe Communities Program umbrella includes safety belt and speed enforcement projects, DWI patrols and sobriety checkpoints in Cape Girardeau and Jackson. It also provides educational programs for students, and it offers special assistance for senior citizens as well.

Some of the well-known programs that are included in the Safe Communities Program are the Safety Village in Cape Girardeau and the Safety City in Jackson, which teach youngsters about safe driving habits and rules. The Heads Up Program and the Traffic Offenders Program also fall under Safe Communities.

Safe Communities was started in 1996 at a time when Cape Girardeau County was one of the top 10 counties in the state for vehicle accidents. The overall program is administered by a 30-member advisory committee that draws its membership from the various partners in the program.

Through the combined efforts of the Safe Communities Program, traffic safety has improved in the past year. Congratulations to all who have had a part in making this possible.