LPD alerts speeding motorists

Lewiston Porter Sentinel, November 15, 2008

You might have seen it out already on area roadways. The Lewiston Police Department recently acquired a new tool for use in targeting speeding motorists. LPD in past weeks received its brand-new Decatur speed board and variable message sign. Valued at nearly $20,000, the device has capability of picking up the speed of vehicles passing by it and displays their speed on a four-foot wide LERD display. It also records data in order to create a traffic study of any traveled roadway. LPD Chief Chris Salada reports the new speed board and message sign was completely paid for by means of a Cops Technology grant, written by LPD grant writer Lisa Rizzo. "This sign is a wake-up call for motorists on 'auto pilot,'" says Salada. "With everyone being in such a hurry these days, hopefully it will slow them down, creating a safer driving environment." He reports the sign has been out in place, slowing down motorists thus far on Creek Road in front of the Lew-Port campus, on the Creek Road Extension, North Fifth Street in the village, and on Upper Mountain Road. "We plan on using this sign throughout the town and village, to complement our normal traffic enforcement."