Slow Down Lamorinda Campaign Speeds Up

The Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda police forces have been moving fast to slow down traffic this month.

The campaign, which began again at the beginning of this month, aims to increase traffic safety and educate the public.

The campaign began June 1 and the police departments are encouraging residents to show their support by signing a pledge and at their local police departments.

Alice Kennelly of Lafayette had never heard of the campaign, but thought it was a good idea, especially at the time of year when school is out and there are more kids on the road.

The three police forces chose a different area in each city to focus on one day a week in the month of June.

On June 1 in Moraga, 22 citations were issued. According to Moraga Police Chief Bob Priebe, this is compared to the average 3.5 citations given out on the same date in this area over the past four years.

In Lafayette, 41 citations were given out on June 8 and in Orinda 54 citations were given out on June 15. The most common citations given out were speed violations and hands free, or cell phone, violations. From June 1 to June 21 there were a total of 15 DUIs.

“I think the campaign is going well thus far, with many comments received by the public indicating a positive response to seeing all three police departments working together,” said Moraga Police Chief Bob Priebe.

The idea for Slow Down Lamorinda was born years ago after a series of fatal traffic accidents rocked Moraga, most related to alcohol and speed. City fathers and the fledgling Traffic Safety Advisory Committee asked for additional enforcement in an effort to "calm" local driving patterns and habits.