Inside Mesa

This past week the Mesa Police Department unveiled a new program - Operation Drive and Arrive.The term simple and to the point when driving our vehicles - the outcome we all expect is to arrive safely. Last year Mesa experienced 67 deaths as a result of vehicle related accidents.Police Chief Gascon’s point driven home was the impact of the loss of those 67 lives made on their family, friends, community, schools, and neighborhoods. It being tragic and senseless. We can do something about it.Commander Ron Kirby, Superstition Police Station, who along with his colleagues - developed the program to save lives and make drivers more aware of their driving habits. The key is do not speed over the posted speed limit! Those days are over folks; drive within the posted speed limits and watch the road before you - tickets will be issued. Save a life; like Jason a teen whose father was present to support the program. Jason was fatally hit as he entered a crosswalk after school last year.Many were present in support of Operation Drive and Arrive including press, supporters of safe streets, and people representing areas in the City of Mesa such as MAHC Representative Pat Esparza.Vice Mayor Claudia Walters - who talked about the heartache of losing a child, a child off to school that suddenly is no longer a part of the family.Councilmember Mike Whalen - spoke of photo safety success and the need to slow down on the road.Councilmember Kyle Jones - said we need to change the mentality of Drivers; speed is the biggest factor and running red lights.Superintendent of Mesa Public Schools Deb Duval - told us how much the death of a child effected schools and was glad the police department will be working at slowing traffic.Mesa Fire Chief Harry Beck - talked about the after effects, rolling up on a tragic scene; the aftermath very impacting to families, those flying in joining other family members of the terrible loss in the family. Most of us don’t know the death and destruction on our streets.Commander Kirby - Who created the program acknowledged all those that helped him develop changing the operational perspective with a challenge to reduce accidents and deaths by 25% - of fatalities 25% are pedestrians which include bicycles. They found no distinct factor although there were those caused as a result of DUI. Mesa Police Chief George Gascon said there will be an increase in police department focus on traffic safety: traffic stops, which will include pedestrians, Jay walking, running red lights, left turns impeding traffic, and speed. Operation Drive and Arrive bumper stickers will also be placed on all public safety vehicles. Over the Labor Day weekend, 120 were arrested for drunk drivers. This change in how traffic safety is viewed is imperative to our community. Obey the speed limits, give yourself plenty of time - drive and arrive safely.The press conference brought an important announcement to the city; Chief Gascon also offered and spoke to the Spanish press in Spanish, ensuring the word gets out to the Hispanic community in their language.