Transportation

ISP issues safety warning for Thanksgiving holiday travel

Submitted by Amber Ruch, KFVS12 County News Web Producer

Wednesday, November 21st, 2012, 11:00am

ISP issues safety warning for Thanksgiving holiday travel

(KFVS) - Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies throughout the state are gearing up for the beginning of the holiday travel period.

Police say the cooperative effort is aimed at stepping up enforcement patrols as the holiday season begins to make the roads safe for all drivers.

Traditionally, the Thanksgiving holiday marks the beginning of the busy holiday driving period which continues through the New Year. Beginning on Wednesday, Nov. 21 through Sunday, Nov. 25, officials expect high traffic volumes on interstates and roads throughout the region, with Thanksgiving Day expected to be the busiest. Illinois State Police are urging the traveling public to adhere to the rules of the road and avoid the "Fatal Four" traffic violations: Speeding, DUI, Seatbelts and Distracted Driving.

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IDOT recommends 'Ice and Snow-Take it Slow'

Submitted by Amber Ruch, KFVS12 County News Web Producer

Saturday, November 17th, 2012, 12:00pm

IDOT recommends 'Ice and Snow-Take it Slow'

(KFVS) - The Illinois Department of Transportation and law enforcement officials recently stressed safety and urged drivers to prepare for unfavorable driving conditions this winter season.

IDOT, Illinois Tollway and the Illinois State Police have partnered to roll out the state's frontline winter crews and ensure that emergency equipment is ready for the upcoming snow and ice season.

"IDOT is fully prepared for the upcoming winter season with sufficient snow removal supplies and staff, and will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement and transportation partners to make state roadways as clear and safe as possible," Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider said. "We strongly encourage all motorists to be ready for harsh weather conditions this year, and to continue to drive defensively, slow down, never drive while distracted or impaired, and always buckle up. Traveler safety remains our top priority at IDOT."

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ISP to launch 'Drive to Survive' campaign

Submitted by Amber Ruch, KFVS12 County News Web Producer

Friday, November 16th, 2012, 12:52pm

ISP to launch 'Drive to Survive' campaign

(KFVS) - The Illinois State Police holds safety as their number one priority.

ISP says their mission is to reduce the number of deaths and injuries on Illinois roadways by getting drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to change their behaviors once they get behind the wheel or on the streets.

The “Drive to Survive” campaign and other High-visibility campaigns, such as “Click it or Ticket” and “Drive Sober or get Pulled Over” supported by IDOT, The Illinois State Police, County and Local police, will be implemented during November and December to help us achieve our mission.

According to ISP, eight people died in traffic crashes on Illinois roads over the Thanksgiving holiday in 2011, with four of the eight killed in crashes involving a drinking driver. Statewide 839 people were injured in Illinois roads over the Thanksgiving holiday in 2011.

Captain Stehley said in a statement:

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Lane reduction, expect delays on northbound I-57 in Franklin County

Submitted by James Long, Digital Content Producer

Friday, November 9th, 2012, 2:58pm

Lane reduction, expect delays on northbound I-57 in Franklin County

FRANKLIN COUNTY, IL (KFVS) - If you travel northbound Interstate 57 in Franklin County, expect delays.

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, starting on November 9, northbound traffic will be reduced to one lane at mile marker 70.

As work progresses, both northbound lanes will be closed and a "rolling road block" will lead traffic over onto the new northbound lanes and structure.

Additional work will require traffic to be reduced to one lane for one week following the transition to new lanes.

Drivers are asked to be alert for slowing or stopped traffic.

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Hurricane Sandy prompts IDOT to permit heavy loads on state roads

Submitted by Amber Ruch, KFVS12 County News Web Producer

Monday, November 5th, 2012, 5:52pm

Hurricane Sandy prompts IDOT to permit heavy loads on state roads

(KFVS) - Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider authorized the movement of heavy loads up to 14 feet in width and 100 feet in length on state routes, including interstates, to help with emergency relief after Hurricane Sandy.

According to Schneider, the hurricane has ravaged sections of the Eastern United States, and this action will improve operations and allow emergency responders and relief providers to quickly and efficiently transport materials as part of the massive clean-up efforts.

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IDOT: Halloween masks won't hide drunk driving

Submitted by Amber Ruch, KFVS12 County News Web Producer

Sunday, October 28th, 2012, 12:00pm

IDOT: Halloween masks won't hide drunk driving

(KFVS) - The Illinois Department of Transportation and the Illinois State Police are reminding drivers to celebrate the Halloween holiday responsibly and keep the party off the road.

They remind participants that their holiday disguises will not make them invisible to police who are out looking for drunk drivers and seat belt law violators throughout the state. IDOT also encouraged drivers to practice safe driving behavior, and allow for a fun-filled weekend.

"The most frightening aspect of Halloween is not the daunting costumes or the chilling pranks, but rather the understanding that some Illinois drivers may still make the wrong choice to drive drunk this holiday weekend," said Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider. "We strongly encourage all Halloween participants to designate a sober driver before leaving the house, and always buckle up and drive defensively."

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IDOT launches 2013 Yellow Dot Program

Submitted by Amber Ruch, KFVS12 County News Web Producer

Thursday, October 18th, 2012, 1:15pm

(KFVS) - The Illinois Department of Transportation, along with the Sangamon County Health Department, first-responders and local participants kicked off the 2013 Yellow Dot program on Thursday.

Due to the successful introduction of the program in 2011, the speakers highlighted the results of last year’s program and encouraged all residents of Illinois to take part in this simple, life-saving initiative.

“We want everyone to understand and receive the benefits of the Yellow Dot program,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider. “Many children have allergies or disorders and by having detailed medical information readily available to first responders, it could potentially save a child’s life.”

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