NJ Seeks to Make Route 130 Safer for Pedestrains

Police in southern New Jersey are working together to try to make Route 130 safer for pedestrians.

Attorney General Jeffrey Chiesa announced the launch of an 18-month "Operation 130 Safe Passage" program in Delran Monday.

The 22 1/2-mile highway in Burlington County is a major transit artery.

Officials say 13 pedestrians have been killed and more than 40 have been involved in motor vehicle accidents on the road between 2007 and 2011.

County sheriff's officers and police in 12 towns will participate in the program.

How Will They Make Route 130 Safer?

Chiesa said police will be targeting speeding, distracted and aggressive drivers and those motorists who do not stop for pedestrians at intersections.

Division of Highway Traffic Safety Acting Director Gary Poedubicky said the project will allow law enforcement to conduct the patrols during peak rush hour travel times, and will be rotating throughout towns in the corridor.

“We know that the most effective enforcement is done during high-volume, high-visibility times, like rush hours. This targeted enforcement effort lets motorists know that there is a police presence on the road and that consistent presence is what changes motoring behavior,” Poedubicky said.

He noted that the shared services agreements between agencies will ensure police will not be restricted by town borders when enforcing traffic laws. Motorists ticketed for not stopping for pedestrians face a $200 fine, two points on their license and court costs, he said.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.