The Oro Valley Police Department (OVPD) is gearing up for safer roads, thanks to nearly $93,000 in traffic safety enforcement grants from the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (AZGOHS). This funding will help keep everyone traveling through Oro Valley a little safer.
A significant portion, $60,158, is allocated for the Impaired Driving Program (DUI). With this grant, OVPD plans to buy DUI enforcement materials and fund extra hours for officers. They’ll also collaborate with the Southern Arizona DUI Taskforce. The main aim is to lower accidents and injuries from alcohol and drug-related driving.
Another $32,841 is set aside for the Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP). This grant will help purchase new moving RADAR units for vehicles and fund additional patrols in areas known for collisions and speeding. The goal here is to cut down on accidents caused by speeding, aggressive driving, and running red lights.
These grants are not just about enforcement; they’re also about educating the public and raising awareness. All of Arizona benefits from these efforts to promote safer driving.
OVPD extends its gratitude to Director J.M. “Jesse” Torrez and his team at AZGOHS for their ongoing support. Thanks to these valuable partnerships, traffic-related injuries and fatalities can be reduced.
Chief Kara Riley of OVPD shared her appreciation, saying, “We value our partnership with GOHS, which helps make Oro Valley roads safer for everyone. Speed, impaired, and distracted driving are serious threats, and these funds will aid in reducing the injuries and fatalities caused by such behaviors.”
Already in 2024, OVPD has taken 209 impaired drivers off the roads, with the busy holiday season still ahead. Their STEP Patrols have resulted in over 872 additional traffic stops this year. This grant will allow OVPD to keep officers focused on these essential life-saving patrols.
Sources
– Oro Valley Police Department
– Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety
– Google Maps