Marion launches ‘enhanced traffic enforcement effort’

MARION — Marion is asking drivers in town to slow down and pay attention.

The Marion Police Department launched enhanced traffic enforcement in an effort to “counter the recent rise in speeding and reckless driving throughout town,” according to a press release.

Over the next four weeks, additional police officers will patrol town roadways, “enforcing local speed limits and cracking down on distracted driving,” the press release said.

“Speeding and reckless driving are serious public safety concerns," Chief Richard Nighelli said. "Not only does speeding endanger the life of the driver and any passengers in their vehicle but also anyone else on or near the roadway, including cyclists and pedestrians."

Complaints to Marion police and the Select Board regarding speeding are “on the rise,” the press release said.

"Drivers need to safely share the road with everyone, including cyclists and pedestrians," Select Board Chairman Norman Hills said.

This is not the first time speeding throughout town has been a concern in Marion.

In May, Town Meeting voters elected to authorize the Marion Select Board to set 25 mph speed limits on thickly settled roads or in business districts.

There will be additional patrols in Marion specifically for traffic enforcement over the next four weeks, according to the release.

“During roadside stops, officers will provide as much safe driving education as possible to the operator,” the release said. “In most cases, the stops will be resolved with a verbal or written warning, or possibly with a civil citation.”

For more information as well as safety tips for drivers and pedestrians, visit marionma.gov.