Sheriff Brian Bellendir said a new traffic safety program aims to reduce accidents, especially at problem areas. The first effort will take place between 7:30 and 9 a.m. Wednesday, May 8, on U.S. 281 from the Great Bend city limits to milepost 108.
“As spring and summer approaches, there will be more traffic on central Kansas roads and highways,” Bellendir noted.  The Barton County Sheriff’s Office is initiating this traffic safety program to help ensure the safety of drivers on certain county roads.  Deputies will conduct special enforcement on highways and roads that are historically high risk areas.
Bellendir said enforcement will concentrate on speed and seat belt violations. Since the purpose is to gain compliance from the public, rather than increase the number of citations, the times and locations of special enforcement will be announced and published in the Great Bend Tribune. Advance notice will also be available to other media, and posted on the BCSO Facebook page.
“On behalf of myself and all the members of the Barton County Sheriff’s Office we ask that you obey the speed laws, please drive safely and wear your seat belt,” Bellendir said.