ALEA increasing highway patrols

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WALA) — The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has announced it has already increased highway patrol presence statewide this Thanksgiving week.

Here is a portion of a press release sent out by ALEA:

As families across the state prepare to gather and give thanks, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is urging motorists to make safety a priority during this Thanksgiving holiday travel period.

With heavier-than-usual highway traffic expected, partly due to increased roadway travel following recent airline disruptions connected to the federal government shutdown, ALEA Troopers are reminding all drivers to keep the roads safe so everyone can give thanks.

To support this mission, ALEA has already increased its highway patrol presence statewide. Throughout the holiday weekend, motorists can expect to see all available Troopers and specialized units actively patrolling Alabama’s roadways to deter dangerous driving behaviors, reduce crashes and ensure everyone arrives safely at their destination.

“This time of year is about spending time with loved ones,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “We are asking every driver to commit to safe decisions behind the wheel. When you choose to slow down, stay alert, buckle up, and never drive impaired, you help protect not only your own family but every family traveling Alabama’s highways.”

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has also announced that no temporary lane closures will be permitted on interstate routes from Wednesday, Nov. 26, through Sunday, Nov. 30.

This measure is designed to minimize congestion and keep traffic flowing safely during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, as well as to protect the safety of the traveling public along with construction and maintenance workers.