August, 5, 2005
The speed limit along some portions of U.S. Route 29 have been raised in an effort to keep traffic flowing smoothly.
Law enforcement officials in Albemarle and Green counties say their roads have been relatively quiet when it comes to accidents in the last week. This, comes as good news, following a recent increase in speed limits.
"As far as enforcement of that, we will continue to enforce the speed limit, and anyone who violates in excess of it," said Deputy James Spradlin, of the Green County Sheriff's Department.
Now, the bad news, there has been an increase in speeding tickets issued in several areas. Just one week ago, the Virginia Department of Transportation raised the speed limit on portions of U.S. Route 29, from 55 to 60 miles per hour.
"Some are traveling at the new speed, but we still continue to get those who violates the speed limits in those areas," added Deputy Spradlin.
Officers in Albemarle County face the same problem as those in Green County. One officerserved a citation for a person reaching 80 miles an hour.
"Our officers are issuing approximately 8 to 12 tickets per night per officer," said Corporal Glen Fink, of the Albemarle County Police Department.
In Albemarle County, 28 speeding tickets have been handed out, for speeding over the last 72 hours.
The highest reading was detected at the intersection of Plank and Monacan Trail Roads where a motorist was clocked going 85 in a 60 mile per hour zone
Police say, with the spike in speeding tickets issued, they have to do a better job at enforcing to keep motorists safe.
Police in both counties urge motorist to buckle up regardless of the speed they're going while driving. If you're caught without wearing a seatbelt, there is a fine for adults and children.
