Lansing mayor launches ‘Operation Slowdown’ to ticket speedy drivers

THURSDAY, Sept. 3 — Speeders, be warned: The Lansing Police Department will be watching.

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor announced today the launch of “Operation Slowdown,” an effort to redirect police patrols and more aggressively target and ticket reckless drivers and speeders. Officials said the new initiative is in response to an increasing number of complaints of speeding and other hazardous driving violations in the city of Lansing, especially in neighborhoods.

“Lansing residents expect their neighborhood streets to be safe and the city takes complaints about hazardous driving seriously,” Schor said in a press release.

LPD officers will now rededicate itself “to promoting safe driving and reducing traffic collisions and traffic-related fatalities,” said Police Chief Daryl Green, by actively enforcing posted speed limits and reminding all motorists to abide by traffic laws or face the legal consequences.

Violations range from $130 to $150, depending on the nature of the speeding violation.

A new reporting form has been set up to help residents direct police resources where they belong. In order to report violations, ask for focused patrols, and request traffic calming measures, residents must first submit a form that includes contact information and details regarding the street to be evaluated. The proposed area must be a minimum of one block.

After completing the form, residents can also print off a petition to install traffic calming devices — like speed bumps — by collecting signatures from at least 25% of households in the proposed area. Completed petitions are then mailed or faxed to the Public Service Department.

Visit lansingmi.gov/traffic or call Schor’s office at 517-483-4141 ext. 1 for more information.