Eastern Adams County's Only Independent Voice Since 1887
Eastern Adams County's Only Independent Voice Since 1887
Traffic emphasis comes with Thanksgiving
The State Patrol has holiday-themed messages for drivers on Highway 26.
WASHTUCNA – Ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday break at Washington State University, the Washington State Patrol is stepping up traffic enforcement on state Highway 26.
Last week, digital signs were placed along the highway that connects Colfax to Othello, a route used by many WSU students who may be heading home for the Thanksgiving holiday and weekend.
The patrol also has extra patrols on the highway to encourage motorists to obey traffic laws.
The emphasis on Highway 26, as well as U.S. Highway 195 between Pullman and Spokane, will continue through Nov. 28.
District 4 troopers in Spokane, Whitman and Adams counties and District 6 troopers in Grant and Kittitas counties will be focusing on speeding to include driving too fast for conditions, impaired driving, texting and cellphone use, and other collision-causing violations, the patrol said.
"We encourage travelers to pay close attention to posted speed limits and to be prepared for changing road and weather/winter driving conditions," a statement from the Washington State Patrol said.
In addition to the extra traffic enforcement, the patrol is encouraging motorists to have their vehicles prepared for winter driving.
The agency suggests motorists have an emergency kit with water, food, blankets, winter clothing and emergency flares in vehicles, the patrol said.
Make sure all the fluids in vehicles are full and the vehicle's battery is in good working order, the patrol said, adding that all-season or snow tires, and chains are advised.
"We appreciate everyone's help and diligence to ensure that we have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving this year," patrol District 4 Cmdr. Capt. Jeff Otis said.
Roger Harnack is owner/publisher of Free Press Publishing. An award-winning journalist, photographer, editor and publisher who grew up in Eastern Washington, he's one of only two Washington state journalists ever to receive the international Golden Quill for editorial/commentary writing. Roger is committed to preserving local media, and along with it, a local voice for Eastern Washington.
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