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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 09, 2026 |
The Maine State Police (MSP), in partnership with the Maine Turnpike Authority (MTA) and the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, conducted a high‑visibility traffic enforcement initiative on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. The following information was provided by the Maine State Police, the lead agency for this operation.
As part of the regional New England Drive to Save Lives campaign (July 6–31), MSP Troopers focused on reducing crashes and fatalities through enhanced speed enforcement and increased attention to work zone safety. The effort spanned the entire Maine Turnpike, from Kittery to Augusta, and involved Troopers from Troop G and the Traffic Safety Unit conducting work‑zone, aircraft, and roving enforcement details using both marked and unmarked cruisers.
The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety supported the initiative through highway safety grants that funded additional enforcement activities.
During Wednesday’s operation:
MTA Executive Director Andre Briere highlighted the safety‑focused purpose of the initiative, stating: “This exercise was never about catching drivers speeding — it's about real‑scenario education and awareness, and a plea to the public to slow down in work zones, especially when road crews are present.”
During the enforcement period, an MTA road crew conducted a temporary lane closure for a guardrail repair between Mile 19 and Mile 23. The active work zone speed limit was posted at 65 miles per hour.
MSP thanks all who participated in the initiative and reminds motorists to obey posted speed limits, eliminate distractions, and use extra caution when traveling through work zones to help prevent crashes and save lives.
MTA also extends its appreciation to all participants, including MSP; Lt. Jodell Wilkinson of Troop G for planning the operation; the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety; and State Representative Steven M. Bishop, who joined MSP for a ride‑along yesterday afternoon.
Maine State Police is the official spokesperson agency for this initiative.