BELFAST — Belfast Police released a press release May 31, regarding the department’s summer traffic enforcement. 

Belfast PD and the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety have partnered for the summer season, as a part of a grant funded program with the aim of reducing crashes via education and traffic enforcement, according to the release from Belfast Police Chief Robert Cormier. 

Crash reduction patrols will conduct speed enforcement and educate drivers in the areas of Belfast where there is the highest volume of crashes annually.

Speed is one of the most common factors in most traffic collisions and using high-visibility speed enforcement is a proven way to reduce speeds, aggressive driving, and related crashes, according to Cormier’s release. 

“Enforcement, together with a robust educational program, has proven to be an effective tool in changing driver behavior. Throughout the summer, the Belfast Police Department will be conducting speed enforcement patrols on various streets across the city with the highest rate of crashes,” Cormier’s release states. 

The information regarding which areas to target came from data obtained through the Maine Crash Reporting System. 

Cormier states that the Department wants to remind drivers that during the summer season the number of pedestrian and biker traffic increases significantly. 

“We want to keep them safe as well,” Cormier wrote. 

Anyone with questions or who would like to see directed speed patrols on their own street, can contact BPD at 338-2040, or email trafficsafety@belfastmepd.org