Local residents will notice an increased police presence on the roads this summer.
Hope RCMP has teamed up with Fraser Valley Integrated Road Safety Unit (FVIRSU) and Fraser Valley Traffic Services (FVTS) to target high risk areas starting on the May long weekend.
An additional 15 members from FVIRSU will focus on Highway 3 and 5, while FVTS patrols Highway 1. The emphasis is on enforcing distracted driving, seatbelt, aggressive driving, motorcycle helmets/usage, and vehicle defect (ex. tinted windows) laws. Officers will also be setting up more roadblocks around Hope and Boston Bar.
“It’s a proactive step to make sure we keep the roads safe,” said Hope RCMP Staff Sgt. Suki Manj. “They’ll be working with our officers here, but it allows the local detachment to deal with larger issues.”
FVIRSU Staff Sgt. Dave Peat warned that members may be wearing uniforms from different jurisdictions even though they are part of the integrated team. Officers will also be staying in Hope overnight while on duty, spending money at local motels, restaurants, and gas stations.
“With more visitors in our community, an increased presence will hopefully keep property crime down and keep the streets safe,” said Glen Ogren, president of the Hope & District Chamber of Commerce.
“It’s always important for services like the RCMP to engage with local businesses. We welcome their presence and hope they will serve the community well as unofficial ambassadors.”